Rising temperatures linked to illnesses causing 250 million lost workdays and 0.3–0.4% of GDP
Representational photo: Star/file
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Representational photo: Star/file
Rising temperatures in Bangladesh are fuelling a surge in heat-related illnesses, leading to the loss of 250 million workdays in 2024 and economic losses estimated at $1.33–1.78 billion, representing about 0.3 to 0.4 percent of Bangladesh’s gross domestic product (GDP) in 2024, according to a new World Bank report.
Furthermore, when temperatures exceed 37°C, productivity loss among working-age individuals increases significantly, underscoring the urgency for effective interventions.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star’s Google News channel. These are major findings of the report, “An Unsustainable Life: The Impact of Heat on Health and the Economy of Bangladesh”, which was revealed today at a hotel in the capital.
“The unprecedented warming has led to a tangible burden on the Bangladesh economy,” the report said.
The study analysed national temperature and humidity trends from 1976 to 2023 and drew from a new two-round 2024 household survey of more than 16,000 people.
Since 1980, Bangladesh’s maximum temperature has risen by 1.1°C, while the “feels like” temperature has surged by 4.5°C, triggering a rise in health issues such as diarrhoea, persistent cough, respiratory diseases, and fatigue, it found. Heatwaves have also caused mental health problems, including depression and anxiety.
“Extreme heat is not just a seasonal inconvenience. Its impact is far-reaching. As we see in Bangladesh, the rising temperature is affecting our health and productivity, and the country’s prosperity,” said Jean Pesme, World Bank Division Director for Bangladesh and Bhutan.
“By building on its experience in climate adaptation and taking a co-ordinated approach across sectors, Bangladesh can address the heatwave impacts and maintain sustainable growth. The good news is that it can be done, as seen in countries like Singapore and others.”
Currently, Bangladesh ranks second globally in exposure to elevated temperatures. The capital, Dhaka, has been hit the hardest, with its heat index increasing about 65 percent higher than the national average.
Health impacts most severe in summer
The health consequences are striking.
In summer, cases of diarrhoea and persistent cough double compared to winter. Women are found to be more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses, such as exhaustion and heat stroke. Depression and anxiety increase during hotter months, with depression rising progressively with age, while anxiety peaks among people aged 50–65.
Productivity losses caused by these physical and mental health conditions are also much higher in summer than in winter.
“Our analysis shows measurable links between exposure to heat and poorer health outcomes, alongside substantial productivity losses. Like many other countries, Bangladesh faces real risks of lost human capital and productivity,” said Iffat Mahmud, Senior Operations Officer at the World Bank and co-author of the report.
“Evidence-based policies and targeted investment for better adaptation measures can improve well-being and livelihoods and secure a healthy future tomorrow.”
The World Bank has called for urgent, co-ordinated action to protect people, livelihoods, and the economy from escalating heat risks.
The report recommends enhancing national preparedness through a multi-sectoral approach to managing heatwaves and equipping health systems to deal with heat-related illnesses.
It also highlights the need for adaptation measures such as creating urban green spaces and collecting more detailed weather and health data to guide decision-making.
In addition, international support and financing — from both public and private sectors — will be crucial in helping Bangladesh mitigate the growing impacts of global warming, the report added.