Food delivery driver John Jay Chan faces the harsh reality of working in scorching heat with no protection amidst record-breaking temperatures in the Philippines. Despite the risks, Chan continues to work long hours to support his family, along with many other outdoor gig workers.
A lack of reliable data on heat-related deaths not only affects workers like Chan but also hinders global efforts to address the dangers of extreme heat. According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), 2.41 billion workers worldwide are exposed to excessive heat, leading to nearly 19,000 annual deaths.
As climate change fuels rising temperatures, accurate data becomes vital for developing effective policies. However, the absence of proper tracking mechanisms poses a significant challenge in assessing the true impact of heat-related illnesses and fatalities.
From India to Mali, the failure to document heat-related fatalities is a glaring public health issue, leaving thousands unaccounted for. This negligence is particularly worrisome in regions like Sub-Saharan Africa, where heat waves are on the rise but data remains scarce.
‘Public health failure’
In countries like India, where heat-related deaths are projected to soar, the lack of accurate recording and reporting is deemed a public health failure. The urgency to address this issue is clear, as heat-related mortality rates continue to climb without adequate data to guide preventive measures.
Amidst the escalating dangers of heat waves and the dire need for data-driven solutions, the global community must prioritize tracking heat-related deaths to safeguard vulnerable populations and combat the growing threat of extreme heat.