Climate change is altering weather patterns and increasing the frequency of adverse weather events. A UCL-led team of researchers argues that these changes are likely to negatively affect the health of people with brain conditions. In a compelling article published in The Lancet Neurology, the researchers highlight the urgent need to understand and mitigate the impact of climate change on neurological health to prevent worsening inequalities.
COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF GLOBAL STUDIES
Professor Sanjay Sisodiya from the UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology led a review of 332 papers published between 1968 and 2023. The review spanned studies from around the world and focused on the potential effects of climate change on 19 nervous system conditions identified by the Global Burden of Disease 2016 study. These conditions include stroke, migraine, Alzheimer’s, meningitis, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and several psychiatric disorders such as anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia.
IMPACT OF TEMPERATURE EXTREMES ON BRAIN CONDITIONS
The research team found clear evidence linking climatic variations to brain conditions. Specifically, extremes of temperature and greater temperature variations throughout the day, especially when these were seasonally unusual, significantly impacted neurological diseases. Nighttime temperatures were particularly noteworthy, as higher temperatures at night disrupt sleep, aggravating several brain conditions.
For instance, higher ambient temperatures or heat waves correlated with increased hospital admissions, disability, and mortality from strokes. People with dementia are especially vulnerable to extreme temperatures and weather events like flooding or wildfires. Cognitive impairments can limit their ability to adapt to environmental changes, increasing their risk of harm.
EFFECT OF CLIMATE ON MENTAL HEALTH DISORDERS
The researchers also found that higher ambient temperatures, daily temperature fluctuations, and extreme temperatures (both hot and cold) were associated with increased incidence, hospital admissions, and mortality for many mental health disorders. As adverse weather events become more severe and global temperatures continue to rise, populations are increasingly exposed to environmental factors that may exacerbate brain conditions.
IMPORTANCE OF UPDATED RESEARCH AND FUTURE PLANNING
Given the dynamic nature of climate change, the researchers emphasize the need for up-to-date research that considers both current and future climate scenarios. Professor Sisodiya stressed the importance of generating relevant information that can aid individuals and organizations in planning and adapting to these changes.
He pointed out that the concept of climate anxiety could further complicate the situation. Many brain conditions already have a higher risk of associated psychiatric disorders, including anxiety. Multimorbidities can compound the effects of climate change, making adaptation strategies more complex.
Call to Action: Raising Awareness and Promoting Collaborative Research
The article precedes “The Hot Brain 2: Climate Change and Brain Health” event, led by Professor Sisodiya and organized by UCL and The Lancet Neurology. This event aims to raise awareness about the risks climate change poses to brain health, nurture global collaborative research, and promote action against climate change while fostering adaptive strategies.
