Health Impacts of Climate Change in Urban Areas: A Pathway to Adaptation

Many cities are actively engaged in the development of heat adaptation plans to reduce future health impacts. Epidemiologic research into the evolution of local heat-health responses over time can greatly aid in planning heat adaptation, prevention of adverse health outcomes among vulnerable populations, and the evaluation of new interventions. Recent epidemiologic findings on heat-related health impacts have reinforced our understanding of the mortality impacts of extreme heat and have shown a range of impacts on morbidity outcomes, including cardiovascular, respiratory, and mental health responses. Evidence is also emerging on temporal trends towards decreasing exposure-response, probably reflecting population adaptation.