The impact of rising ambient temperatures on the mental and physical health of children

Abstract

Globally, mean ambient temperatures have increased by 1.6 °C between preindustrial level and 2024, alongside a rise in extreme weather events such as heatwaves and droughts. This rapid review synthesizes the existing literature on the risks to children’s physical and mental health due to heat exposure. Comprehensive literature searches were conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect. This review highlights the increased risks to children’s physical and mental health from extreme temperatures in several populations. Major health concerns include heat-related illnesses, dehydration, increasing incidence of infectious diseases, reduced cognitive performance, depression and anxiety and the exacerbation of pre-existing conditions. Potential strategies to mitigate these negative health outcomes are proposed, including improved access to cooling solutions, public health interventions, and educational campaigns to improve thermal comfort.

HIGHLIGHTS • Children are vulnerable to a range of physical and mental health impacts from excessive ambient temperatures. • The physical effects of heat extend beyond the typical heat illness symptoms such as heat stroke. • Kidney disease, cardiovascular disease, asthma and respiratory conditions are among the most common effects of heat on children. • The negative mental health effects of heat are associated with cognitive, behavioural and major psychological effects. • Healthcare providers must be trained to recognize and treat heat-related illnesses, while strategies like improving access to cool spaces and conducting further research are crucial for fostering resilience and mitigating future health risks.