by The world can warm up, but killing with regard to cold weather in the US is increasing, new research shows.
What happens?
The New York Times reported on a study that discovered that the number of deaths in which cold was an underlying or contributing factor, more than doubled from 1999 to 2022.
For some, this can come a shock – the temperatures in the US are on average 4 degrees Fahrenheit warmer than 50 years ago, the publication reported, which quoted information from Climate Central. However, it explained that our overheating planet also leads to more frequent eruptions of extremely cold winter weather.
“We are less used to experiencing those cold temperatures, so that it is much more a shock for the system,” it made much more shock to the system, “Victor Gensini, a professor in meteorology at Northern Illinois University, laid Out of The Times.
Why is the study concerning?
Powerful weather can cause serious conditions, such as freezing and hypothermia, warns the National Weather Service. Frostbite can lead to the loss of extremities such as fingers and toes, while hypothermia can kill. And survivors of hypothermia often tolerate permanent kidney, liver and pancreatic problems.
In addition to the health effects in people, extremely cold weather can also cause serious damage to certain crops and it can lead to freezing or cracks in houses, the NWS adds.
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In the meantime, the dead in the heat are also increasing in the United States, thanks to the rising global temperatures. In fact, a recent study discovered an increase in the heat-related deaths of the heat-related death between 1999 and 2023, and researchers expect the trend to continue. Heat waves in the Pacific Northwest In 2024, for example, were the suspected cause of at least 16 deaths in Oregon.
Who runs the most risk?
The study showed that people aged 75 and older are particularly vulnerable, because our ability to regulate our body temperature is falling with age. The times also explained that the elderly often suffer from other chronic conditions, such as diabetes or thyroid problems, which can influence the ability of the body to stay warm if they are not treated properly.
The study also showed that cold-related mortality rates were highest among American Indians, residents of Alaska and black people, groups that have traditionally marginalized and often have uneven access to income, education, housing and health services.
What can people do to protect themselves against the cold?
It is important to recognize the signs of hypothermia. In adults these include uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation, incoherence, unclear speech, sleepiness and apparent exhaustion, according to the NWS. However, as hypothermia becomes more serious, the person can stop shivering, claims massive general Brigham.
According to the NWS, if you see these signs in someone, you have to take their temperature. If it is lower than 95 degrees Fahrenheit, look for medical care immediately.
If medical care is not available, heat the person slowly, starting with their body core. Use your own body heat if necessary. Make sure that the person is in warm, dry clothing and wrap them in a warm blanket, which covers their head and neck.
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