Extreme heat will double US hospitalizations by 2040
5 hours ago
- #heatwave
- #public-health
- #climate-change
- Anticipated rise in US heat-related hospitalizations from 109,000 to 237,000 annually by 2040, doubling healthcare costs to over $1 billion.
- Severe heat causes more US deaths than all other extreme weather combined; fatalities increased by over 50% in the last two decades.
- Vulnerable groups include lower-income individuals, outdoor workers, and those with pre-existing health conditions or inadequate housing.
- California and Las Vegas expected to see the most heat-related health issues, while northeastern regions face severe consequences per heat event.
- High energy costs and reduced federal programs may prevent many from using air conditioning, escalating health risks during heatwaves.