Nordic Life Science 1
CLIMATE CHANGE // HEALTH EFFECTS Jeroen de Bont,
Assistant Professor, Karolinska Institutet Anette Hylen Ranhoff, Professor of geriatrics, University of Bergen “I think one of the most important things we can do is remain aware and alert when temperatures are high. This is an essential message to those working in elderly care, such as home nursing services, as well as for family caregivers,” Hylen Ranhoff advises. H igh temperatures can also have a negative effect on pregnant women. Jeroen de Bont, an environmental epidemiologist at Karolinska Institutet with extensive experience, studies these effects. “High temperatures may alter the functioning of the placenta, trigger contractions, or disturb hormonal and immune regulation. These processes increase the risk of complications such as hypertensive disorders, placental abruption, and impaired fetal growth. In some cases, heat exposure has also been linked to developmental changes that may lead to birth defects, stillbirth, or neonatal death,” he says. “These associations have been seen in Europe, although the relationships appear to be stronger in low- and middleincome countries,” he adds. Protecting those most at risk Rising temperatures reduce the productivity of both outdoor workers and indoor employees who don’t have access to air conditioning (AC). Outdoor workers need protection such as shade and shelter, regular breaks, and proper hydration to prevent heat-related health risks. For indoor workers, access to AC is crucial. Although its use is expanding across Europe, AC remains less common in northern regions, where rising temperatures also have been observed. Studies indicate that in northern territories, extremely hot days are associated with a 27% rise in respiratory mortality (Zafeiratou et al., Environmental Epidemiology, 2024) compared to the risk on moderately hot days. During extreme heat waves, high demand for electricity can also cause blackouts, showing that reliance on AC alone is not sustainable. Furthermore, AC requires power that generates emissions and contributes further to warming. Researchers therefore emphasize the importance of adaptation strategies, including urban green spaces, climate-sensitive building design, and shade. Population growth and demand for housing are leading to fewer green areas in many European cities. This in turn exacerbates the effects from urban heat islands in cities as asphalt and concrete absorb and retain heat. Research shows that parks and trees help mitigate these impacts, so they act as Nature Based Solutions (NBS), which highlights the protective role of urban greenery. To address the loss of space, architects are also experimenting with green roofs and walls. As the impact of heat is becoming more evident, cities need to quickly adapt. This means that architects and local authorities alike need to ensure that heat measures are equitable and protect everyone. “When green spaces are developed, wealthier residents may benefit disproportionately – a phenomenon known as green gentrification – which can limit access for vulnerable populations. Local authorities need to address these issues to ensure heat adaptation measures protect everyone,” Aunan outlines. “Heat-related deaths result from a complex interplay of physiological, individual, and societal factors. Looking ahead, research will focus on assessing the effectiveness of different adaptation measures and ensuring that the most vulnerable groups of society are better protected from the growing threat of frequent and intense heat waves,” concludes Kristin Aunan. NLS NORDICLIFESCIENCE.ORG | 91 PHOTO ULF SIRBORN