Young adults face higher heat-related death risks than older populations

Younger people, particularly those under 35, are more likely to die from extreme heat caused by climate change than the elderly, a new study finds.

Sharon Udasin reports for The Hill.

In short:

About 75% of recent heat-related deaths in Mexico occurred in people under 35, with many aged 18 to 34.
Researchers linked heat deaths to physical activities, lack of air conditioning and outdoor jobs among younger adults.
The study suggests poorer nations with younger labor forces may experience even greater heat-related mortality.

Key quote:

“It’s a surprise. These are physiologically the most robust people in the population."

— Jeffrey Shrader, environmental and labor economist at Columbia University

Why this matters:

Younger adults often perform physically demanding jobs under heat-exposed conditions, making them more vulnerable to rising temperatures. As climate change intensifies, more heat-related deaths in this age group could strain families and economies worldwide.

thehill.com

Young adults face higher heat-related death risks than older populations

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