High temperatures and health outcomes: a review of the literature.

Aims: To analyse the relationship between high temperatures and population health impacts, in terms of mortality and morbidity.

Methods: A literature search was conducted using Medline to collect data from studies on heat waves, temperature-health impacts curve, risk factors, and preventive measures. All the data collected was published in English and available up to December 2009.

[Health effects of heat waves].

Climate change, characterized by increased mean temperatures and more frequent occurrence of extreme temperatures, may lead to adverse health effects through different and complex mechanisms due to substantial changes in the physical and social environment. The most easily measurable health effects of climate change in high-risk groups are the direct effects of excessively high temperatures. A literature review was performed to identify studies regarding heat waves, risk factors and prevention programmes.