Schizophrenia patients hit hard by B.C. heat dome
Schizophrenia patients faced higher mortality during B.C.'s 2021 heat dome.
Why it matters
- Highlights disproportionate impact of climate events on vulnerable populations.
- Shows need for targeted interventions during extreme weather.
By the numbers
- Over 600 deaths during the heat dome.
- 15.7% of deaths were people with schizophrenia, who make up 1% of the population.
- Three times higher risk of death for those with schizophrenia.
The big picture
- Vulnerability due to poverty, poor housing, stigma, and social isolation.
- Calls for structural changes to ensure access to safe, cool spaces.
What they're saying
- Disproportionate impact noted, with stigma and poverty as key factors.
- Similar vulnerabilities likely for other stigmatized groups.
Caveats
- Study based on specific event and population; generalizability may be limited.
- Data from interviews may have recall bias.
What’s next
- Policymakers urged to invest in climate-resilient housing.
- Address stigma and tailor public health strategies.