Climate-Induced Mortality: A Wake-Up Call for Policy Action

Context: 

In recent years, the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events—particularly tropical cyclones—have risen sharply due to climate change. These events have disproportionately impacted low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) that often lack robust healthcare and disaster preparedness systems.

A new multi-country research study has revealed a concerning link between tropical cyclone exposure and increased infant mortality in these vulnerable regions.

Key Findings of the Study

• The study analysed nearly 1.7 million child health records from 7 LMICs:
  Bangladesh, India, Madagascar, Cambodia, the Philippines, the Dominican Republic, and Haiti.

• Infants exposed to tropical cyclones, either in the womb or during their first year of life, were found to have a significantly higher risk of death.

• On average:

  • Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) increased by 11% post-cyclone.

  • This equals an additional 4.4 deaths per 1,000 live births.

• The elevated risk was:

  • Most acute within the first year after the storm.

  • It subsided after two years.

Country-wise Impact

• While the average increase was 11%, the impact varied significantly across countries.

• Countries with major increases in IMR:

  • Bangladesh

  • Haiti

  • Dominican Republic
    These nations saw more than 10 additional deaths per 1,000 births following cyclone events.

• Countries with little or no increase:

  • India

  • Madagascar

  • Cambodia

  • Philippines

Probable Reasons Behind Variation

The study suggests several factors influencing differences in impact:

1. Geography

   • Mountainous terrain in some countries offers natural protection.

   • Others have flood-prone low-lying regions more susceptible to cyclone damage.

2. Disaster Preparedness

   • Efficient evacuation mechanisms, public awareness, and early warning systems mitigate risk.

3. Housing & Infrastructure

   • Sturdier housing can prevent displacement and injury.

   • Availability of healthcare services during and after disasters is crucial.

4. Baseline Health Conditions

   • Regions with high child malnutrition, poor sanitation, and limited healthcare access face compounded risks.

Climate Change and Future Risks

• The study reinforces the growing vulnerability of infants in the face of climate-induced extreme weather events.

• As climate change intensifies, both strong and lower-intensity cyclones are expected to increase in frequency.

• These findings highlight an urgent need to:

  • Strengthen disaster response systems.

  • Improve maternal and child health infrastructure.

  • Integrate climate resilience into national health policies.

Definition: Infant Mortality Rate (IMR)

• IMR refers to the number of deaths of infants under one year of age per 1,000 live births in a given year.

• It is a key indicator of health system performance and socioeconomic development.