A recent study has revealed that young people are particularly vulnerable to the health impacts of global warming.
As climate change intensifies, the spread of diseases and health issues such as respiratory and cardiovascular ailments is becoming more evident. Additionally, premature deaths linked to extreme weather events are rising, raising concerns among scientists about the mental health threats associated with climate change.
Traditionally, research has indicated that the elderly are most at risk of death from extreme heat. However, a recent study published in the Science Advances journal on December 6, 2024, challenges this assumption by showing that 75% of heat-related deaths occur among individuals aged 18 to 35. This finding contradicts earlier beliefs that younger people, due to their perceived physical resilience, were less susceptible to heat-related dangers.
Researchers focused their study on Mexico, where accurate geographic data on mortality rates and temperatures is available. They examined data from 1998 to 2019, during which approximately 3,300 heat-related deaths were recorded. The findings indicate that higher temperatures significantly increase heat-related mortality rates among young people, while the death rate for elderly individuals aged 50 to 70 remains comparatively low.
Despite their physical and mental strength, young people may be more vulnerable to extreme heat due to several factors. Many young individuals spend extended hours outdoors for work—such as farming, construction, and repair jobs—or for exercise, making them more susceptible to dehydration and heatstroke.
As Mexico is classified as a middle-income country, its youth are facing serious health risks due to rising temperatures. Poorer nations in Africa and Asia may experience similar trends, particularly given their reliance on agriculture and the fact that many young people work in this sector.
The study's authors believe these findings could be applicable worldwide, highlighting the dangers faced by different populations, especially the youth—the backbone of any country.
