Soumya Swaminathan, former WHO chief scientist, asserts that India likely underreports heat-related deaths due to inadequate data. She emphasized the widespread vulnerability of the population to climate change impacts, asserted the health risks posed by extreme heat, and linked these conditions to both physical and mental health challenges. Swaminathan called for comprehensive measures to protect public welfare.
Soumya Swaminathan, the former Chief Scientist of the World Health Organization, indicated that India is likely underreporting heat-related fatalities due to insufficient data. During her address at The Energy and Resources Institute’s World Sustainable Development Summit, she emphasized that accurate tracking of these deaths is lacking, necessitating reliance on estimations and modeling.
Swaminathan referenced various scientific research findings that highlight the alarming correlation between heatwaves and increased mortality rates. She remarked, “Practically everyone in India is now vulnerable to climate change impacts, from extreme heat to vector-borne diseases. Addressing this requires close cooperation.”
The alarming effects of climate change are evident, with over 80 percent of India’s populace now facing health threats linked to climate change, such as respiratory diseases and malnutrition stemming from disrupted agriculture. In the previous summer, India recorded 536 days of heatwaves, the highest number in fourteen years, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
Official records indicate 41,789 suspected cases of heat stroke and 143 heat-related deaths during a prolonged heatwave, yet Swaminathan asserts that mortality data reflects only a fraction of the true impact. She stated, “Many more people suffer from conditions worsened by extreme heat, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and heat exhaustion, leading to productivity and economic losses.”
Furthermore, prolonged exposure to extreme heat may adversely affect mental health, contributing to increased suicide rates, deteriorating psychiatric conditions, and heightened domestic violence. Swaminathan concluded her remarks by emphasizing the necessity for measures to ensure both survival and thermal comfort, underscoring their importance for public health and well-being.
In summary, Soumya Swaminathan’s insights reflect the critical issues surrounding the underreporting of heat-related deaths in India due to a lack of accurate data. She highlights the repercussions of climate change, noting its extensive impact on health and well-being across the population. Addressing these challenges requires concerted efforts and proactive measures to mitigate the risks associated with extreme temperatures.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
