Bangladesh is facing growing health and economic risks due to rising temperatures, according to a new World Bank report. The study, titled “An Unsustainable Life: The Impact of Heat on Health and the Economy of Bangladesh,” analyzed national temperature and humidity trends from 1976 to 2023 and drew on a large 2024 household survey of over 16,000 people. Since 1980, the country’s maximum temperature has increased by 1.1°C, while the “feels like” temperature rose by 4.5°C. These conditions have contributed to rising cases of diarrhea, respiratory diseases, persistent cough, fatigue, and mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.
World Bank officials warned that extreme heat is more than a seasonal issue, as it affects health, productivity, and long-term prosperity. They stressed that Bangladesh, with its experience in climate adaptation, can mitigate these impacts through a coordinated, cross-sectoral response, drawing on lessons from other countries like Singapore.
The report highlights Bangladesh’s high vulnerability, ranking second globally in exposure to elevated temperatures. Dhaka has been hit especially hard, with its heat index increasing by 65 percent more than the national average. The economic impact is significant, with heat-related health conditions causing a loss of 250 million workdays in 2024 alone, amounting to an estimated $1.78 billion—equivalent to 0.4 percent of the country’s GDP.
Health outcomes show stark seasonal differences. Cases of diarrhea and persistent cough double in summer compared to winter, while women are more prone to exhaustion and heat stroke. Depression and anxiety also rise during hot months, with anxiety peaking between the ages of 50 and 65, and depression increasing steadily with age. These health issues contribute to lower productivity, particularly in the summer months.
The report underlines the need for urgent and coordinated action to reduce heat-related risks. Recommendations include strengthening health systems to handle heat-related illnesses, improving urban planning through green spaces, and ensuring the collection of accurate climate and health data to guide policies. International support, along with public and private investments, will also be key to helping Bangladesh adapt and protect its population, economy, and environment from the escalating effects of global warming.
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