Study: One-third of world now faces extreme heat that limits daily activity

A newly published report has shown that approximately one-third of the world's population lives in areas where extreme heat severely restricts daily physical activity, highlighting the growing impact of climate change on human health and well-being. The study, published in the journal Environmental Research Health, analyzed temperature and humidity data spanning from 1950 to 2024.

Senior citizens most affected

The analysis found that people aged 65 and over face significant difficulty carrying out routine tasks due to extreme heat, particularly during certain months of the year. According to the report, parts of Asia, Africa, Australia, and North America are becoming "unlivable" for senior individuals. Extreme heat now severely restricts safe outdoor activity for those aged 65 and older by an average of 900 hours per year, compared with approximately 600 hours annually in 1950—a 50% increase over 74 years.

Geographic impact

The research identifies specific regions where the combination of temperature and humidity creates dangerous conditions for vulnerable populations. Areas across South Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, parts of Australia and the southwestern United States are experiencing the most severe restrictions on outdoor activity, particularly during summer months.

Urgent call for action

The report also stressed the urgent need for measures to reduce the primary drivers of global warming, including oil, natural gas, and coal. The findings underscore the accelerating pace of climate change and its direct impact on human health, mobility and quality of life, particularly for the world's growing elderly population.