There may be higher chances of women developing health and societal issues due to extreme heat compared to men, owing to their biological, financial, and societal disadvantages, according to recent research regarding the differential effects of global warming on women.

According to the study, women tend to have an increased likelihood of developing conditions related to excessive heat, especially while pregnant, old, and residing in poverty-stricken regions lacking access to cooling mechanisms and healthcare services. The researchers pointed out that such occurrences were becoming frequent and extreme in several parts of the world.

The results support the claim that climate change poses disproportionate risks to various societies. The scientists pointed out that occupational factors and family obligations could increase the probability of developing health conditions associated with extreme heat among females.

It was stated that the adverse climatic conditions would cause dehydration, heat stroke, and heart conditions. In addition, expectant mothers are at risk of developing certain complications due to elevated body temperatures. Women who lived alone and were old were mentioned as another disadvantaged category when faced with extended heat waves.

It was stated in the report that women engaged in agriculture, manufacturing, and informal labor might face increased vulnerability to exposure from poor air ventilation and the outdoor environment. Several studies show that many women are subjected to longer working hours involving household duties such as cooking and fetching water. Thus, the women become vulnerable to high heat levels in summer.

The researchers emphasized that economic inequality could contribute to inadequate responses to extreme weather events. Lack of financial freedom and unequal access to medical services or transport could lead to some women being unable to evacuate their homes or seek medical aid during heat emergencies.

The research comes at a time when several nations are experiencing intense heat waves, a consequence of rising temperatures around the globe. The health experts have been cautioning for several years that there would be an increasing number of cases of death and disease due to a lack of adaptation and better urban planning.

The researchers highlighted that authorities needed to create heat action plans by taking into consideration the gender-based vulnerabilities. Some of the recommendations include improved access to cool centers, medical services, workplace safety, and awareness campaigns about extreme heat events.

As reported by climate scientists, the increase in temperature will put further stress on healthcare systems, productivity, and water scarcity in many parts of the world. According to the study, knowledge regarding heat exposure among various populations would be beneficial for developing climate change adaptation policies.