Mental illness and increased vulnerability to negative health effects from extreme heat events: a systematic review

Abstract

Rationale: Across countries, extreme heat events are projected to increase in frequency and intensity because of climate change. Exposure to extreme heat events can have a substantial negative impact on human health, and extant research suggests that individuals with mental illness are particularly vulnerable. To date, there has been no review of evidence regarding this vulnerability to inform response strategies and future research. Objective: A systematic review was undertaken to investigate mental illness as an effect modifier of the relationship between heat exposure and morbidity or mortality. Methods: Six databases (Medline, Embase, Global Health, PsychInfo, CINAHL and Scopus) were..