How Rising Heat Disproportionately Threatens Women's Health in 2024

Global temperatures hit 1.6°C above pre-industrial levels in 2024. Rising heat poses unique health risks for women, particularly during pregnancy, ageing, and menopause. Many of these risks remain underdiagnosed and overlooked in medical practice. Extreme heat has been linked to higher rates of breast, ovarian, and uterine cancers in women. It also increases the likelihood of premature births and complications for newborns. Temperature swings can worsen hot flushes and other menopausal symptoms while harming mental health.

In Brazil, one in three women goes through menopause without a formal diagnosis. The Unified Health System has only diagnosed around 238,000 women of menopausal age. Historically, male dominance in gynaecological science has contributed to the underdiagnosis of menopausal symptoms.

Experts now urge future health professionals to adopt a 'climate lens' in their work. They recommend weaving environmental education into care plans to address these growing challenges. Public policies are being called on to ensure access to hormonal and multidisciplinary treatments for menopausal women. The push comes as climate change deepens health disparities. Addressing these gaps could improve outcomes for millions affected by extreme temperatures.