Study of Natural Mortality Due to Heat Waves in Argentine Cities (2005–2019)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48162/rev.40.082Keywords:
Heatwaves, Mortality, CitiesAbstract
Heatwaves (HW) pose a health threat with various effects on morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to analyze mortality associated with HW in cities across Argentina. To this end, an ecological epidemiological study with a time series approach was conducted, applying generalized additive models. Natural cause mortality during HW events and their lag effects was analyzed in 21 cities over the period 2005–2019.
The outcome variables were: crude natural mortality, by sex (men and women), and by age group (0–64 years and 65 years and older). A significant increase in mortality risk was observed in 19 cities for one or more of the subgroups analyzed during HW events or their lag periods. Crude natural mortality increased in 14 cities, and women showed a higher risk compared to men. In 80% of the cities, mortality risk increased among people aged 65 and over during HW events. Additionally, increased mortality risk was observed in three cities in Patagonia.
The findings of this study may contribute to the development of local health promotion and protection policies.
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