A specialist physician has cautioned that rising temperatures are posing increasing risks to public health worldwide, with heat-related illnesses now causing more deaths in some regions than cold-related conditions.
Specialist Physician Dr. Nandana Dickmadugoda has raised concerns about the growing threat posed by extreme temperatures to human health, noting that inadequate precautions during heat exposure can result in serious illness and mortality. He stressed that health authorities and meteorological agencies have consistently communicated the dangers of heat exposure and the protective measures the public should adopt.
Dr. Dickmadugoda explained that the human body maintains a stable internal temperature of approximately 36 degrees Celsius through a biological regulation system controlled by the hypothalamus, a region of the brain. Unlike reptiles and certain other animals whose body temperatures vary with environmental conditions, humans are "homeothermic" organisms that constantly work to preserve stable core temperatures. Prolonged exposure to extreme heat places considerable strain on these natural temperature-control mechanisms.
According to the specialist, heat-related health complications have become a significant global concern. Data from the World Health Organization indicates approximately 175,000 people die annually from heat-related causes. He cited England as an example, where around 2,870 deaths were recorded in 2026 linked to extreme heat illnesses. In numerous parts of the world, heat-related deaths now surpass those caused by extreme cold, elevating heat exposure to a critical public health priority.
Dr. Dickmadugoda urged the public to take preventive measures including maintaining adequate hydration, limiting direct sun exposure during peak hours, and adhering to health and weather advisories as temperatures rise.
