Climate Change Is Increasing Health Risks in India, Lancet Report Warns
Rising temperatures, extreme heat and changing weather patterns are creating serious health challenges across India. A new international health report warns that climate change is increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses, sleep disturbances and mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue and malaria.
Climate Change Is Becoming a Major Health Threat
Climate change is no longer just an environmental concern. It is increasingly becoming a public health challenge that affects people’s daily lives, physical well-being and access to safe living conditions.
According to the 2026 Lancet Countdown on Health and Climate Change report, health risks associated with global warming have increased significantly over the past decade.
The report highlights how prolonged heat exposure, extreme weather and changing environmental conditions are affecting communities across different parts of the world, including India.
Researchers are calling for stronger health protection measures and better preparation for climate-related emergencies.
Extreme Heat Is Putting Indians at Risk
One of the most concerning findings relates to India’s growing exposure to extreme temperatures.
The report estimates that approximately half of the heatwave days experienced in India between 2016 and 2025 were attributable to climate change.
People are also experiencing more hours during which outdoor activities can create a moderate or higher risk of heat stress.
Between 2016 and 2025, Indians experienced more than 2,600 such hours annually on average, over 200 hours more than the average during the 1990s.
Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause dehydration, heat exhaustion and potentially life-threatening heatstroke.
Outdoor workers, farmers, construction workers, children and older adults are particularly vulnerable.
Rising Night-Time Temperatures Are Affecting Sleep
Another important concern highlighted by researchers is the impact of warmer nights on sleep.
High temperatures can make it difficult for the body to cool down naturally during the night, potentially affecting sleep quality and recovery.
According to the report, people in India lost an estimated 64 hours of sleep annually between 2021 and 2025 because of higher night-time temperatures.
Poor sleep over extended periods can affect concentration, mood, productivity and overall health.
Climate Change May Increase Dengue and Malaria Risks
Changing temperatures and rainfall patterns can influence mosquito breeding and disease transmission.
The Lancet report highlights increasing environmental suitability for mosquitoes responsible for spreading dengue.
The transmission potential of Aedes albopictus mosquitoes increased substantially compared with historical levels.
Conditions favourable for malaria transmission have also expanded.
Between 2016 and 2025, the number of environmentally suitable months increased by:
- 19% for Plasmodium falciparum.
- 18% for Plasmodium vivax.
These parasites are responsible for two major forms of malaria.
The findings highlight why mosquito control, sanitation, disease surveillance and early diagnosis remain important public health priorities.
Coastal Areas Face Additional Health Challenges
The effects of climate change are also extending to India’s coastal regions.
Researchers identified increasing environmental suitability for Vibrio bacteria along the Indian coastline.
Certain Vibrio species can cause gastrointestinal infections and wound infections, particularly through exposure to contaminated water or seafood.
The environmentally suitable length of India’s coastline for Vibrio transmission increased by approximately 27% compared with 1982–1991, reaching around 2,740 kilometres in 2025.
This development highlights the importance of monitoring coastal water quality and strengthening food safety measures.
What Can People Do to Protect Their Health?
Although climate change requires action from governments and communities, individuals can also take practical steps to reduce health risks.
- Drink sufficient safe water, especially during hot weather.
- Avoid unnecessary outdoor activities during peak afternoon temperatures.
- Wear lightweight, breathable clothing.
- Use mosquito nets and repellents to reduce mosquito bites.
- Remove standing water around homes to prevent mosquito breeding.
- Maintain good sleep habits and keep sleeping areas as cool as possible.
- Seek medical attention if symptoms of heatstroke or serious infection develop.
Experts Call for Stronger Healthcare Preparedness
The findings highlight the need for better coordination between environmental agencies and healthcare systems.
Early-warning systems, heat action plans, mosquito surveillance and improved public awareness could help reduce the health impact of extreme weather.
Hospitals and community healthcare centres also need adequate preparation to manage increases in heat-related illnesses and climate-sensitive infections.
Conclusion
The latest Lancet Countdown findings send an important warning about the growing connection between climate change and human health in India.
From extreme heat and disturbed sleep to dengue, malaria and coastal infections, environmental changes are creating multiple health challenges.
Protecting public health will require stronger climate policies, better healthcare preparedness and greater awareness among communities.
Addressing climate change is therefore not only about protecting the environment but also about safeguarding people’s health and future generations.
