In Japan, the Risk of Heatstroke Death Rises Starting at 27.1 Degrees

JAKARTA - The risk of death from heatstroke increases when the maximum daytime temperature exceeds 27.1 degrees Celsius. This finding appears in a joint study by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and the University of Tokyo.

Kyodo News, quoted Thursday, July 9, reported that the research team asked residents to be more active in using air conditioners or ACs ahead of the peak of the summer. The appeal came because the risk of death does not only occur when the temperature is very extreme.

The study was conducted by the Tokyo Medical Examiner's Office in collaboration with the University of Tokyo Graduate School. Researchers analyzed 1,447 cases of death due to heatstroke in 23 Tokyo districts.

The case investigated occurred in the period from January 2013 to September 2023. Researchers looked at a number of factors, including the weather conditions when the victim died and whether air conditioning was available at the location.

Heatstroke or heat attack occurs when the body is no longer able to control the temperature due to exposure to heat.

The results of the study showed that the risk of death increased when the daily maximum temperature exceeded 27.1 degrees Celsius. The risk became much greater when the temperature continued to rise.

When the maximum temperature exceeds 33 degrees Celsius, the risk of death in people who do not use air conditioning is more than double compared to those who use air conditioning.

Researchers also found that the indirect heat impact disappeared when the temperature dropped. When the temperature exceeds 31 degrees Celsius, the heat effect can last for four to five days. During that period, the risk of death remains high.

According to the study, cases suspected of being related to the use of ineffective or inappropriate air conditioning include 16.4 percent of indoor deaths. The causes include clogged air conditioning ventilation or incorrect temperature settings and device functions.