New Publication: Identifying Effective Heatstroke Mortality Thresholds in Japan

As global temperatures continue to rise, the need for effective preventive measures against heat-related health risks has become increasingly urgent. While general warnings such as “Extremely high risk beyond WBGT 33°C” are often issued, many other factors including duration of exposure, population vulnerability, and local preventive systems can substantially influence the actual risk.

This recent study, led by Assistant Professor Vera Phung, introduces an evidence-based approach to determine effective temperature thresholds for heatstroke mortality in Japan, accounting for regional differences and subgroup characteristics. The findings provide a robust scientific foundation for improving and developing more adaptive heat warning systems in the future.

Publication details:
Phung VLH, Honda Y, Oka K, Madaniyazi L, Ng CFS, Tobias A, Hashizume M. Identifying Effective Thresholds for Heatstroke Mortality in Japan Considering Regional and Population Characteristics.
Environment & Health, 2025.

Press release:
地域・時期に応じた「熱中症警戒アラート」の発表基準について検討