New research led by Harvard University has revealed that extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, are significantly associated with increased risks of death from stroke. The study, spanning from 1979 to 2019 and covering 522 cities across 25 countries, underscores a stronger link in low-income countries compared to high-income ones.

The analysis, based on data from the Multi-Country Multi-City Network, a global environmental health consortium, examined approximately 34 lakh deaths attributed to ischaemic stroke and 24 lakh deaths due to haemorrhagic stroke. It highlights the critical impact of temperature extremes on stroke mortality, emphasizing the need for tailored public health strategies to mitigate these risks, particularly in vulnerable populations.

The findings suggest that night-time heat, in addition to extreme temperatures, plays a significant role in exacerbating stroke risks globally. This research provides valuable insights into the intersection of climate factors and public health outcomes, prompting further exploration into adaptive measures and policy interventions to protect communities from the adverse health effects of temperature fluctuations.