Regional Variations in Characteristics and Statistics of Heat-related Illnesses in the Chungcheong Region (2025)

This study aimed to elucidate climate-health vulnerability in the Chungcheong region (i.e., Daejeon, Sejong, Chungcheongbuk-do, and Chungcheongnam-do) and examine in-depth analytical statistics and evidence for establishing climate-health policies and risk communication strategies at the national and regional levels.

Data derived from the Heat Injury Surveillance System by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency in 2025 were used to monitor incidents of heat injuries and heat-related illnesses in the Chungcheong region (36 municipalities). Additional analyses were conducted using meteorological and healthcare utilization data from the Korea Meteorological Administration and Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service, respectively. Regional incidence rates were calculated as the number of heat-related illness cases per 100,000 population. To visualize regional distribution, a hexagon binning (hexbin) tool was applied.

In 2025, a total of 527 heat-related illness cases were reported in the Chungcheong region. Men accounted for 426 cases (80.8%), which is approximately four times higher than women (101 cases, 19.2%). The highest proportion of cases was observed for individuals aged 40-59 years (171 cases, 32.4%). The proportion of cases for individuals aged 60 years and older was 39.6%, representing a decrease of 2.2 percentage points compared with the previous year. The study noted substantial regional disparities in heat-related illness cases, ranging from 2.3 per 100,000 population in Dong-gu, Daejeon, to 49.6 per 100,000 population in Okcheon County, Chungcheongbuk-do, which corresponds to a 21.6-fold difference. In Chungcheongnam-do, the areas exhibiting the most number of cases remained consistent with those observed in the previous year, including Cheongyang County (40.9), Yesan County (25.4), and Dangjin City (23.8). In Chungcheongbuk-do, the ranking of high-incidence areas was reversed compared with the previous year, with Okcheon County (49.6), Danyang County (40.6), and Boeun County (36.2) obtaining the highest rates. Estimated heat-related deaths occurred exclusively in Chungcheongnam-do, with two deaths reported in Dangjin and one each in Cheongyang, Buyeo, and Gongju.

To enhance climate-health literacy and community engagement, furthering stratifying vulnerable groups at risk of heat-related illnesses and developing customized health guidance materials are essential measures. In addition, community-based and ferderalized-/resident-based education and risk communication strategies grounded in regional statistical data are required to promote active participation and awareness at the local level.