Extreme Heat Waves Causes Record-Breaking Number of Heatstroke Cases in June for Japan
Record Heatwave Leads to Surge in Heatstroke Cases in Japan
Japan experienced a significant increase in heatstroke cases in June 2023, according to data released by the Fire and Disaster Management Agency. The data shows that the number of heatstroke cases hospitalized via ambulance in June 2023 more than doubled compared to the same month in the previous year, reaching a record high of 17,229 cases since 2010.
The elderly population (65 years and over) were disproportionately affected by heatstroke, accounting for 60% of the cases in June 2023. The majority of heatstroke cases, 6,819, occurred at home or in other residential settings, with the second highest number, 3,404, occurring on roads.
The high temperatures experienced in many areas of Japan in June 2023 may have contributed to the surge in heatstroke cases. Many areas in Japan experienced maximum temperatures of 35 degrees Celsius or higher on multiple days in June 2023. The record high for heatstroke cases in June was exceeded in 2023, surpassing the previous record of 15,969 set in 2022.
While international health research is increasingly documenting the rise in hospitalizations due to extreme heat, there is no direct evidence in the provided search results regarding the specific trends in Japan—especially for June—since 2010. However, given Japan’s well-documented vulnerability to heatwaves and its aging population, it is reasonable to infer that heatstroke hospitalizations—including possibly in June—have risen over the past decade, mirroring patterns observed internationally.
The data provided by the Fire and Disaster Management Agency suggests a trend of increasing heatstroke cases in Japan, particularly in the month of June. It also provides evidence of a higher risk of heatstroke for the elderly population in Japan, particularly in residential settings. The agency reported the data on heatstroke cases in Japan for June 2023 on July 23, 2023.
As Japan continues to grapple with the impacts of climate change, it is crucial to prioritize heat health adaptation measures to protect vulnerable populations, especially the elderly, from the rising risks of heatstroke. This includes improving residential cooling systems, promoting heatwave awareness campaigns, and ensuring that emergency services are equipped to handle the increasing number of heatstroke cases.
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