Extreme Heatwaves in Europe and Their Impact on the Health Sector: Health Consequences, Economic Burden, Climate Adaptation, and Policy Responses
in: Modern and Contemporary Research Social, Human and Administrative Sciences, Prof. Dr. Osman YILMAZ, Editor, All Sciences Academy, İstanbul, pp.32-59, 2026
- Publication Type: Book Chapter / Chapter Research Book
- Publication Date: 2026
- Publisher: All Sciences Academy
- City: İstanbul
- Page Numbers: pp.32-59
- Editors: Prof. Dr. Osman YILMAZ, Editor
- Istanbul Gelisim University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
Climate change is reshaping health risks across Europe, with increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves placing growing pressure on healthcare systems. This chapter explores the implications of extreme heat for population health, healthcare delivery, hospital operations, workforce capacity, and healthcare expenditure. Drawing on recent European climate and health reports, policy documents, and scholarly literature, it examines how rising temperatures contribute to heat-related mortality and morbidity, particularly cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, and mental health conditions. The chapter also considers the increasing demand for emergency services, hospital care, and intensive care, alongside operational challenges such as cooling requirements, infrastructure stress, power disruptions, supply-chain vulnerabilities, and workforce fatigue. Particular attention is given to climate adaptation within healthcare, including heat-health warning systems, resilient hospital infrastructure, urban heat mitigation, sustainable financing, and climate-informed planning. The chapter concludes by highlighting the need for coordinated investment and policy action to build sustainable, climate-resilient healthcare systems. Keywords – Climate change; Heatwaves; Europe; Healthcare systems; Heat-related mortality; Climate adaptation; Hospital resilience; Sustainable healthcare; Health policy.