The Role of Greenness in Heat-Related Mortality: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Ana Perez-Moreno, Maria Martinez-Andres, Blanca Notario-Pacheco et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the relationship between greenness and heat-related mortality across various countries. It included 11 observational studies and found that heat waves increased mortality in both low-greenness (RR = 1.33) and high-greenness areas (RR = 1.18), with the association being 11% stronger in low-greenness areas. The findings suggest that greater greenness may reduce vulnerability to extreme heat.
Key findings
- Heat waves increased mortality in low-greenness areas (RR = 1.33; 95% CI: 1.15-1.55).
- Mortality also increased in high-greenness areas (RR = 1.18; 95% CI: 1.03-1.36).
- The heat-mortality association was 11% stronger in low-greenness areas (RoR = 1.11; 95% CI: 1.06-1.15).
Why it matters
Understanding the impact of environmental factors like greenness on heat-related mortality is crucial for public health strategies, especially as climate change increases the frequency of heat waves. This knowledge can inform urban planning and health interventions aimed at reducing heat vulnerability.