Environmental temperature and mortality.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Mortality patterns in Finland exhibit distinct seasonal variations, peaking in winter and around holidays.
• Significant excess mortality is observed during colder months, affecting cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and respiratory diseases.
• Both cold and heat exposure are identified as critical environmental factors influencing daily mortality rates.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the relationship between seasonal temperature variations and daily mortality in Finland.
• To quantify excess deaths attributable to cold and heat exposure.
• To highlight the public health implications of temperature-related mortality.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of daily mortality data in Finland correlated with daily mean temperatures.
• Quantification of excess mortality during cold and hot periods compared to optimal temperatures.
• Identification of primary causes of death associated with temperature extremes.

Main Results:

• Mortality peaks in winter and during Christmas holidays, with a trough in August.
• Excess mortality is 30% for coronary heart disease, 40% for cerebrovascular accidents, and 90% for respiratory diseases during peak periods.
• An estimated 2000-3000 extra deaths occur annually due to cold weather, while 100-200 deaths are linked to high temperatures.
• Cold exposure increases blood pressure and thrombosis risk; heat exposure increases blood viscosity and thrombosis risk.

Conclusions:

• Both cold and heat represent significant public health hazards in Finland.
• Temperature extremes contribute substantially to excess mortality, particularly among the elderly but also affecting working-age individuals.
• Healthcare professionals require education on managing temperature-related health risks.