Health and Me

Aarushi Bhadury

What Happens In Your Brain When You Die? Learning About The Final Moments In Life

What Happens In Your Brain When You Die?

We have all wonder what happens right before we die. Whether the belief that we see our entire life flash in our brain is true or do we see the people we cherish the most. Even though death is an immortal truth that happens to everyone eventually, there is little of what we know about it. 

While memories and similar thoughts may be difficult to track yet, we can still learn a lot from people who have had such events, especially looking at near-death experiences (NDEs), is helping us understand more. 

NDEs are unique experiences reported by people who almost died but survived. They often describe vivid memories, feeling like they're outside their body, or entering peaceful states. These accounts give us a rare glimpse into what might be happening in the brain at the brink of death. 

Explaining parts of this dilemma, a 2023 study published in the Frontier’s in Aging Neuroscience, shows what happens in our brain when we die or are at the brink of death. 

Historically, death was marked by the heart stopping. However, in 1968, Harvard Medical School proposed adding brain death as a definition. This means someone is legally dead if their brain has completely and irreversibly lost all function, even if their heart is still beating with life support. Doctors use specific tests to determine brain death, like checking for:

<ul><li>No response to stimulation (coma).</li><li>No reflexes involving the brainstem (like pupils reacting to light or gagging).</li><li>No spontaneous breathing.</li></ul>

While EEG (electroencephalogram), which measures brain electrical activity, can be used, it's not always the primary test. Some studies show brain activity can sometimes persist briefly even after the heart stops. 

<h2>What Happens to Brain Cells When We Die? </h2>

The study explained that when blood stops flowing to the brain, brain cells (neurons) quickly lose their vital oxygen and energy. This sets off a chain reaction of damage: cells run out of their main fuel, ATP. Then, the tiny pumps that keep cells balanced fail, causing them to swell and get flooded with calcium. This excess calcium activates enzymes that literally break down the cell's structure, leading to widespread damage and eventually, cell death. 

About 4-8% of people report having had a Near-Death Experience (NDE). These experiences often include vivid memory recall, where people relive their lives in flashbacks, and out-of-body experiences, feeling as if they've left their physical body and are looking down on it. Many also describe an altered consciousness, a profound sense of peace or heightened awareness. 

Scientists are trying to connect these subjective experiences to measurable brain activity, particularly using EEG. Different brain wave frequencies are linked to different states of consciousness: 

<strong>Alpha (8-13 Hz): </strong>Often linked to a relaxed, "idling" state or inhibiting irrelevant information.

<strong>Theta (4-8 Hz):</strong> Associated with memory processing, especially in the hippocampus.

<strong>Gamma (30-100 Hz):</strong> Linked to attention, awareness, conscious perception, and memory. This is a key area of interest in NDEs. 

Intriguingly, research on both animals and some human cases has shown a surge of high-frequency gamma waves in the brain shortly after cardiac arrest (when the heart stops). This "gamma surge" has led some researchers to suggest that the brain might be capable of generating active conscious processing even in the final moments of life. 

However, the timing and location of this activity can vary. Some studies using limited EEG monitoring (like on the forehead) showed brain activity ceasing before the heart, while others with more extensive brain monitoring found some activity persisting. This suggests the process of brain "shutting down" might be more gradual and complex than previously thought, and not necessarily a sudden, uniform halt across the entire brain. 

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What Happens In Your Brain When You Die

Final Moments In Life

brain dead

what happens when you die

brain activity at the brink of death

brain cell

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We have all wonder what happens right before we die. Whether the belief that we see our entire life flash in our brain is true or do we see the people we cherish the most. Even though death is an immortal truth that happens to everyone eventually, there is little of what we know about it. While memories and similar thoughts may be difficult to track yet, we can still learn a lot from people who have had such events, especially looking at near-death experiences (NDEs), is helping us understand more. NDEs are unique experiences reported by people who almost died but survived. They often describe vivid memories, feeling like they're outside their body, or entering peaceful states. These accounts give us a rare glimpse into what might be happening in the brain at the brink of death. Explaining parts of this dilemma, a 2023 study published in the Frontier’s in Aging Neuroscience, shows what happens in our brain when we die or are at the brink of death. Defining Death Historically, death was marked by the heart stopping. However, in 1968, Harvard Medical School proposed adding brain death as a definition. This means someone is legally dead if their brain has completely and irreversibly lost all function, even if their heart is still beating with life support. Doctors use specific tests to determine brain death, like checking for:No response to stimulation (coma).No reflexes involving the brainstem (like pupils reacting to light or gagging).No spontaneous breathing.While EEG (electroencephalogram), which measures brain electrical activity, can be used, it's not always the primary test. Some studies show brain activity can sometimes persist briefly even after the heart stops. What Happens to Brain Cells When We Die? The study explained that when blood stops flowing to the brain, brain cells (neurons) quickly lose their vital oxygen and energy. This sets off a chain reaction of damage: cells run out of their main fuel, ATP. Then, the tiny pumps that keep cells balanced fail, causing them to swell and get flooded with calcium. This excess calcium activates enzymes that literally break down the cell's structure, leading to widespread damage and eventually, cell death. About 4-8% of people report having had a Near-Death Experience (NDE). These experiences often include vivid memory recall, where people relive their lives in flashbacks, and out-of-body experiences, feeling as if they've left their physical body and are looking down on it. Many also describe an altered consciousness, a profound sense of peace or heightened awareness. What Did Scientists Find? Scientists are trying to connect these subjective experiences to measurable brain activity, particularly using EEG. Different brain wave frequencies are linked to different states of consciousness: Alpha (8-13 Hz): Often linked to a relaxed, "idling" state or inhibiting irrelevant information.Theta (4-8 Hz): Associated with memory processing, especially in the hippocampus.Gamma (30-100 Hz): Linked to attention, awareness, conscious perception, and memory. This is a key area of interest in NDEs. Intriguingly, research on both animals and some human cases has shown a surge of high-frequency gamma waves in the brain shortly after cardiac arrest (when the heart stops). This "gamma surge" has led some researchers to suggest that the brain might be capable of generating active conscious processing even in the final moments of life. However, the timing and location of this activity can vary. Some studies using limited EEG monitoring (like on the forehead) showed brain activity ceasing before the heart, while others with more extensive brain monitoring found some activity persisting. This suggests the process of brain "shutting down" might be more gradual and complex than previously thought, and not necessarily a sudden, uniform halt across the entire brain.  

what happens in your brain when you die? learning about the final moments in life

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Over the past few years, doctors and researchers have noticed a clear pattern: more young adults are being diagnosed with colorectal cancer—those under 50. On the surface, some of this surge can be credited to increased screening, especially following guideline updates that lowered the recommended starting age from 50 to 45. But deeper beneath those screening numbers lies a troubling reality: diagnoses among truly younger adults aren’t solely due to being screened earlier. That means we’re facing a bigger shift, one that demands fresh solutions.

In 2018, the American <span>Cancer</span> Society recommended colorectal cancer screening begin at age 45—five years earlier than before. In 2021, the US Preventive Services Task Force followed suit. Unsurprisingly, this led to a jump in early-stage diagnoses among 45-to-49-year-olds.

ACS data published in JAMA shows a steady increase in screening rates: from 20.8% in 2019 and 19.7% in 2021, rising to 33.7% in 2023 among that age group. A second ACS-led study tracked early-stage diagnosis rates—from 9.4 cases per 100,000 in 2019, to 11.7 in 2021, then 17.5 in 2022. That’s a 50% relative increase between 2021 and 2022. Experts note this trend largely reflects held-back cases being detected earlier thanks to broader testing.

But that doesn’t chalk up the entire story. Colon and rectal cancers have been increasing steadily in younger adults—those under 45—for decades. This early-onset rise began in the mid-1990s and includes late-stage diagnoses—not just early detection.

Doctors stress that while the decline in age recommendations helped some, it doesn’t explain the persistent rise in younger adults. In fact, research suggests annual case increases of 2–2.6% have occurred since 2012 among those under 50. In the 20–39 age group, incidence has been rising by around 1.6% per year since 2004.

More than 20% of colorectal cancer cases now occur in adults under 55—double the rate from the mid-1990s. Alarmingly, this early-onset trend is contributing to colorectal cancer becoming the leading cause of cancer death among younger men and the second-leading cause among younger women. 

These are not always lifestyle-driven cases. Many patients are young, active, and with no known family history. As clinicians, many have expressed how unsettling it is to see so many seemingly healthy people presenting with aggressive tumors—and often at advanced stages. 

<h2>What Might Be Driving This Worrisome Surge?</h2>

Researchers are testing multiple theories—but none yet fully explain the rise:

Gut microbe toxins such as colibactin, produced by certain E. coli, are drawing attention. These toxins leave a specific DNA mutation fingerprint in early-onset tumors—over three times more common compared to cancers in older patients. Some studies suggest 15% of early-onset cases involve colibactin-driven mutations.

Diet- and lifestyle-related risks remain central: obesity, processed meats, low-fiber diets, sedentary behavior, refined sugar, insufficient sleep, and environmental pollutants. One prominent study links higher birth and adolescent BMI with increased colon cancer risk later in life. Even every additional kilogram at birth above normal is tied to 9% higher colorectal cancer risk. 

Other suspected contributors include microplastics, antibiotic use, and artificial light exposure, although more conclusive evidence is pending. 

<h2>Symptoms You Should Never Ignore</h2>

Crucial to stopping this trend early is awareness. Here’s what to watch for—and not dismiss, even if you’re under 45:

<ul><li>Rectal bleeding</li><li>Persistent abdominal pain or cramping</li><li>Changes in bowel habits or stool shape</li><li>Unexplained weight loss or appetite changes</li></ul>

Jessica Star of ACS—lead author on both new JAMA papers—warns, more than half of cases in younger adults occurred in those not yet eligible for screening. So symptoms matter, regardless of age. If you're dismissed with a benign diagnosis like hemorrhoids, consider a second opinion. 

Screening matters. Most colorectal cancers begin as precancerous polyps, and removing these early saves lives. Current recommended options include:

<ul><li>Annual or triennial stool-based fecal tests</li><li>Colonoscopy every 10 years</li><li>Virtual colonoscopy every five years</li><li>Sigmoidoscopy every five years</li></ul>

Promising new research shows that mailing stool test kits directly to eligible adults dramatically increases completed screenings—even more than simply offering choice. Yet, screening is still underused: more than 1 in 3 adults aged 45 and older report not getting screened as recommended. To reduce personal risk:

<ul><li>Maintain healthy body weight and regular physical activity</li><li>Cut back on red and processed meats, refined sugars, and ultraprocessed foods</li><li>Boost fiber intake through plant-based nutrition</li><li>Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol</li><li>Stay alert to symptoms and seek screening or evaluation promptly when indicated</li></ul>

If you’re under 50—or even nearing that threshold—understand this: colorectal cancer is no longer just a disease of older adults. While earlier screening through age-lowering guidelines has helped catch many early-stage cancers in 45–49-year-olds, it doesn’t address the underlying, persistent rise in true early-onset cancer.

The surge among younger adults signals something deeper—and possibly preventable—but only if we tackle it strategically. That means screening more women and men at the right age, investing in research, and making early testing easier and more equitable.

As expert researchers remind us, we’re not merely diagnosing more cancers—we’re getting better at catching them earlier. But to save more lives, identify root causes, and reverse these trends, we must remain proactive. Not just for our generation—but for all who follow.

cancer

colon cancer in young adults

early onset colorectal cancer

colon cancer symptoms

colorectal cancer screening age

colonoscopy for young adults

colon cancer risk factors

rising colon cancer cases

Over the past few years, doctors and researchers have noticed a clear pattern: more young adults are being diagnosed with colorectal cancer—those under 50. On the surface, some of this surge can be credited to increased screening, especially following guideline updates that lowered the recommended starting age from 50 to 45. But deeper beneath those screening numbers lies a troubling reality: diagnoses among truly younger adults aren’t solely due to being screened earlier. That means we’re facing a bigger shift, one that demands fresh solutions.In 2018, the American Cancer Society recommended colorectal cancer screening begin at age 45—five years earlier than before. In 2021, the US Preventive Services Task Force followed suit. Unsurprisingly, this led to a jump in early-stage diagnoses among 45-to-49-year-olds.ACS data published in JAMA shows a steady increase in screening rates: from 20.8% in 2019 and 19.7% in 2021, rising to 33.7% in 2023 among that age group. A second ACS-led study tracked early-stage diagnosis rates—from 9.4 cases per 100,000 in 2019, to 11.7 in 2021, then 17.5 in 2022. That’s a 50% relative increase between 2021 and 2022. Experts note this trend largely reflects held-back cases being detected earlier thanks to broader testing.But that doesn’t chalk up the entire story. Colon and rectal cancers have been increasing steadily in younger adults—those under 45—for decades. This early-onset rise began in the mid-1990s and includes late-stage diagnoses—not just early detection.Who Is Getting Diagnosed?Doctors stress that while the decline in age recommendations helped some, it doesn’t explain the persistent rise in younger adults. In fact, research suggests annual case increases of 2–2.6% have occurred since 2012 among those under 50. In the 20–39 age group, incidence has been rising by around 1.6% per year since 2004.More than 20% of colorectal cancer cases now occur in adults under 55—double the rate from the mid-1990s. Alarmingly, this early-onset trend is contributing to colorectal cancer becoming the leading cause of cancer death among younger men and the second-leading cause among younger women. These are not always lifestyle-driven cases. Many patients are young, active, and with no known family history. As clinicians, many have expressed how unsettling it is to see so many seemingly healthy people presenting with aggressive tumors—and often at advanced stages. What Might Be Driving This Worrisome Surge?Researchers are testing multiple theories—but none yet fully explain the rise:Gut microbe toxins such as colibactin, produced by certain E. coli, are drawing attention. These toxins leave a specific DNA mutation fingerprint in early-onset tumors—over three times more common compared to cancers in older patients. Some studies suggest 15% of early-onset cases involve colibactin-driven mutations.Diet- and lifestyle-related risks remain central: obesity, processed meats, low-fiber diets, sedentary behavior, refined sugar, insufficient sleep, and environmental pollutants. One prominent study links higher birth and adolescent BMI with increased colon cancer risk later in life. Even every additional kilogram at birth above normal is tied to 9% higher colorectal cancer risk. Other suspected contributors include microplastics, antibiotic use, and artificial light exposure, although more conclusive evidence is pending. Symptoms You Should Never IgnoreCrucial to stopping this trend early is awareness. Here’s what to watch for—and not dismiss, even if you’re under 45:Rectal bleedingPersistent abdominal pain or crampingChanges in bowel habits or stool shapeUnexplained weight loss or appetite changesJessica Star of ACS—lead author on both new JAMA papers—warns, more than half of cases in younger adults occurred in those not yet eligible for screening. So symptoms matter, regardless of age. If you're dismissed with a benign diagnosis like hemorrhoids, consider a second opinion. How to Lower Your Risk?Screening matters. Most colorectal cancers begin as precancerous polyps, and removing these early saves lives. Current recommended options include:Annual or triennial stool-based fecal testsColonoscopy every 10 yearsVirtual colonoscopy every five yearsSigmoidoscopy every five yearsPromising new research shows that mailing stool test kits directly to eligible adults dramatically increases completed screenings—even more than simply offering choice. Yet, screening is still underused: more than 1 in 3 adults aged 45 and older report not getting screened as recommended. To reduce personal risk:Maintain healthy body weight and regular physical activityCut back on red and processed meats, refined sugars, and ultraprocessed foodsBoost fiber intake through plant-based nutritionAvoid tobacco and limit alcoholStay alert to symptoms and seek screening or evaluation promptly when indicatedIf you’re under 50—or even nearing that threshold—understand this: colorectal cancer is no longer just a disease of older adults. While earlier screening through age-lowering guidelines has helped catch many early-stage cancers in 45–49-year-olds, it doesn’t address the underlying, persistent rise in true early-onset cancer.The surge among younger adults signals something deeper—and possibly preventable—but only if we tackle it strategically. That means screening more women and men at the right age, investing in research, and making early testing easier and more equitable.As expert researchers remind us, we’re not merely diagnosing more cancers—we’re getting better at catching them earlier. But to save more lives, identify root causes, and reverse these trends, we must remain proactive. Not just for our generation—but for all who follow.

with active screenings detecting colon cancer early in young adults—here’s how to check your risk

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One of the most common cancers in the world, it is the leading cause of cancer related deaths in the world. It accounts for the highest mortality rates among men and women. However, this has become a rising issue among women. A 2014 study published in the Seminars in Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery journal explained that historically <span>lung cancer</span> was mainly studied in men because it was very rare in women. However, as social habits changed and more women started smoking, the number of lung cancer cases in women increased. They mentioned that lung cancer often behaves differently in women than it does in men, especially in non-smokers. This review looks at these differences, including risk factors, how the disease develops, and treatment options. 

<h2><span rel="noindex">Lung Cancer in Women</span> </h2>

In the United States, lung cancer is the second most common cancer in women and the top cause of cancer-related death. Here are some important statistics from 2012: 

<ul><li>There were an estimated 109,690 new diagnoses in women.</li><li>Lung cancer caused an estimated 72,590 deaths in women, which was more than the number of deaths from breast and colon cancer combined.</li><li>The 5-year survival rate for women is about 18%, which is slightly better than the 14% rate for men, but it is still very low.</li><li>Globally, lung cancer cases and deaths in women are still on the rise, especially in countries where more women are starting to smoke.</li></ul>

<h2>What Are Some Risk Factors Other Than Smoking? </h2>

Smoking is still the biggest cause of lung cancer in women, responsible for 80-90% of cases. However, a significant number of women who get lung cancer have never smoked. 

<ul><li>Women married to men who smoke have a 25-29% higher risk of getting lung cancer.</li><li>Burning cooking oil or other fuels indoors in areas with poor airflow, especially in developing countries, is a major risk factor.</li><li>A family history of lung cancer increases a woman's risk more than a man's.</li><li>Hormones like estrogen may play a role in the development of lung cancer.</li><li> Studies in some women, particularly in East Asia, have linked the human papillomavirus (HPV) to lung cancer.</li></ul>

<h2>What Are Some Challenges Women Face With <span rel="noindex">Lung Cancer Diagnosis</span>? </h2>

According to Lungevity, women often face delays and hurdles in getting a lung cancer diagnosis, which can worsen their chances of survival. 

Women are less likely to seek help for early symptoms and can experience longer waiting times between initial doctor visits and a final diagnosis. This can allow the disease to progress before treatment even begins.

Many women are not offered lung cancer screening. A study found that women of color who are eligible for screening are six times less likely to be offered it than their male counterparts. 

Even with recent updates to screening guidelines in the Center of Disease Control and Prevention, which now include people aged 50 and older and with a smoking history of at least 20 pack-years, many women still don't qualify. This is a major issue because a large number of women with lung cancer have a limited smoking history, which means they are often overlooked. 

<h2>What Other Ways Does Lung Cancer Affect Women </h2>

The impact of lung cancer on a woman's well-being is often ignored, yet research shows it's a significant burden. 

Women with lung cancer have higher rates of depression and anxiety than men. This stress is often made worse by the stigma of the disease, with many women reporting judgmental comments about smoking, regardless of whether they have a smoking history. 

Sexual health is often an overlooked part of cancer care for women. A study of 249 women with lung cancer found that 77% experienced moderate to severe sexual dysfunction. The women reported issues like fatigue and shortness of breath during intimacy, as well as vaginal dryness and pain. 

<h2>Lack of Women in Clinical Trials </h2>

A long-standing problem in healthcare is the low number of women in clinical trials. This makes it difficult to know how effective a treatment is for women specifically. 

Women make up only 40% of participants in clinical trials for diseases that affect them, like cancer. For non-small cell lung cancer, this number has not changed much over the past two decades. 

Women face extra challenges in participating in trials, such as being primary caregivers, which limits their time. There are also gender biases from doctors who may assume women are less interested in research. 

The lack of female representation is a safety issue. One study found that women were 25% more likely to have severe side effects from cancer treatments, but another study found that they were less likely to report these issues. 

lung cancer

lung cancer diagnosis

psychological distress women

Lung Cancer Prognosis In Women

Lung Cancer in Women

lung cancer Risk Factors

One of the most common cancers in the world, it is the leading cause of cancer related deaths in the world. It accounts for the highest mortality rates among men and women. However, this has become a rising issue among women. A 2014 study published in the Seminars in Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery journal explained that historically lung cancer was mainly studied in men because it was very rare in women. However, as social habits changed and more women started smoking, the number of lung cancer cases in women increased. They mentioned that lung cancer often behaves differently in women than it does in men, especially in non-smokers. This review looks at these differences, including risk factors, how the disease develops, and treatment options. Lung Cancer in Women In the United States, lung cancer is the second most common cancer in women and the top cause of cancer-related death. Here are some important statistics from 2012: There were an estimated 109,690 new diagnoses in women.Lung cancer caused an estimated 72,590 deaths in women, which was more than the number of deaths from breast and colon cancer combined.The 5-year survival rate for women is about 18%, which is slightly better than the 14% rate for men, but it is still very low.Globally, lung cancer cases and deaths in women are still on the rise, especially in countries where more women are starting to smoke.What Are Some Risk Factors Other Than Smoking? Smoking is still the biggest cause of lung cancer in women, responsible for 80-90% of cases. However, a significant number of women who get lung cancer have never smoked. Women married to men who smoke have a 25-29% higher risk of getting lung cancer.Burning cooking oil or other fuels indoors in areas with poor airflow, especially in developing countries, is a major risk factor.A family history of lung cancer increases a woman's risk more than a man's.Hormones like estrogen may play a role in the development of lung cancer. Studies in some women, particularly in East Asia, have linked the human papillomavirus (HPV) to lung cancer.What Are Some Challenges Women Face With Lung Cancer Diagnosis? According to Lungevity, women often face delays and hurdles in getting a lung cancer diagnosis, which can worsen their chances of survival. Diagnosis Delays Women are less likely to seek help for early symptoms and can experience longer waiting times between initial doctor visits and a final diagnosis. This can allow the disease to progress before treatment even begins. Lack of Screening Many women are not offered lung cancer screening. A study found that women of color who are eligible for screening are six times less likely to be offered it than their male counterparts. Outdated Rules Even with recent updates to screening guidelines in the Center of Disease Control and Prevention, which now include people aged 50 and older and with a smoking history of at least 20 pack-years, many women still don't qualify. This is a major issue because a large number of women with lung cancer have a limited smoking history, which means they are often overlooked. What Other Ways Does Lung Cancer Affect Women The impact of lung cancer on a woman's well-being is often ignored, yet research shows it's a significant burden. Psychological Distress Women with lung cancer have higher rates of depression and anxiety than men. This stress is often made worse by the stigma of the disease, with many women reporting judgmental comments about smoking, regardless of whether they have a smoking history. Sexual Health Sexual health is often an overlooked part of cancer care for women. A study of 249 women with lung cancer found that 77% experienced moderate to severe sexual dysfunction. The women reported issues like fatigue and shortness of breath during intimacy, as well as vaginal dryness and pain. Lack of Women in Clinical Trials A long-standing problem in healthcare is the low number of women in clinical trials. This makes it difficult to know how effective a treatment is for women specifically. Low Participation Women make up only 40% of participants in clinical trials for diseases that affect them, like cancer. For non-small cell lung cancer, this number has not changed much over the past two decades. Unique Barriers Women face extra challenges in participating in trials, such as being primary caregivers, which limits their time. There are also gender biases from doctors who may assume women are less interested in research. Safety Concerns The lack of female representation is a safety issue. One study found that women were 25% more likely to have severe side effects from cancer treatments, but another study found that they were less likely to report these issues. 

Ishita Roy

Nutrition

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About 84% IT Employees Are Suffering With Fatty Liver Disease - Why Screenings Are Necessary For Corporate Workers

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As <span>climate change</span> accelerates, California is bracing for an alarming increase in emergency room (ER) visits, mainly due to rising daily temperatures, according to a new study by researchers from UC San Diego and Stanford University.

While the warming trend may result in fewer deaths from extreme cold, the study warns that this benefit will be overshadowed by a surge in heat-related health issues requiring emergency care.

<h4>Warmer Weather Means More ER Visits</h4>

“Heat can harm health even when it doesn’t kill,” explained Carlos Gould, lead author of the study and assistant professor of public health at UC San Diego. “Warmer temperatures were consistently associated with more trips to the emergency department, so studies and planning that only consider mortality miss a big slice of the burden.”

Researchers analyzed health and temperature data across California from 2006 to 2017. By projecting these trends to 2050, they estimated a sharp increase in emergency department visits as hot days become more frequent. While the study did note a potential 53,500 fewer deaths due to milder winters, this does not compensate for the wave of new ER visits tied to heat-related health issues.

Contrary to popular belief, heatstroke won’t be the only culprit driving people to the ER. “We often think about only the most extreme health impacts of heat waves: deaths,” said co-author Alexandra Heaney, also from UCSD. “This work is showing that many things we may not think about being sensitive to extreme heat are, like poisonings, endocrine disorders, injuries, and digestive issues.”

Mental health problems and physical injuries are expected to increase, particularly on hotter days. Heat can exacerbate existing medical conditions, trigger accidents, and even affect medication absorption and metabolism, making everyday health management more complicated.

<h4>Younger People May Suffer More from Heat</h4>

The study also found that different age groups will face different types of risks. “Age plays a critical role in shaping health risks from temperatures,” said Gould. “Older adults are particularly vulnerable to cold temperatures, whereas younger adults and children are more affected by heat.”

This means that as heat waves increase, younger populations may start seeing more ER trips for conditions that weren't previously associated with climate risks, creating an evolving and unpredictable healthcare challenge.

<h4>An Urgent Need for Planning and Collaboration</h4>

Experts involved in the study are calling for hospitals, insurance providers, and public health agencies to act now. Marshall Burke, a co-author and associate professor at Stanford University, emphasized that targeted communication and preparation are critical.

“Understanding who is affected, how, and at what temperatures is critical for planning appropriate responses to protect health,” Burke said. “This is true with or without climate change, but a warming climate makes it more important and alters who is exposed to what.”

With California already battling issues like drought, wildfires, and poor air quality, this looming healthcare burden adds another layer of urgency to climate preparedness efforts.

The findings were published on July 30 in the journal Science Advances. As the climate continues to shift, healthcare systems across the U.S, and especially in heat-prone states like California, will need to brace for a hotter, more hazardous future.

heat wave

health and wellness

ER visit

climate change

us health

california heat wave

As climate change accelerates, California is bracing for an alarming increase in emergency room (ER) visits, mainly due to rising daily temperatures, according to a new study by researchers from UC San Diego and Stanford University.While the warming trend may result in fewer deaths from extreme cold, the study warns that this benefit will be overshadowed by a surge in heat-related health issues requiring emergency care.Warmer Weather Means More ER Visits“Heat can harm health even when it doesn’t kill,” explained Carlos Gould, lead author of the study and assistant professor of public health at UC San Diego. “Warmer temperatures were consistently associated with more trips to the emergency department, so studies and planning that only consider mortality miss a big slice of the burden.”Researchers analyzed health and temperature data across California from 2006 to 2017. By projecting these trends to 2050, they estimated a sharp increase in emergency department visits as hot days become more frequent. While the study did note a potential 53,500 fewer deaths due to milder winters, this does not compensate for the wave of new ER visits tied to heat-related health issues.It’s Not Just HeatstrokeContrary to popular belief, heatstroke won’t be the only culprit driving people to the ER. “We often think about only the most extreme health impacts of heat waves: deaths,” said co-author Alexandra Heaney, also from UCSD. “This work is showing that many things we may not think about being sensitive to extreme heat are, like poisonings, endocrine disorders, injuries, and digestive issues.”Mental health problems and physical injuries are expected to increase, particularly on hotter days. Heat can exacerbate existing medical conditions, trigger accidents, and even affect medication absorption and metabolism, making everyday health management more complicated.Younger People May Suffer More from HeatThe study also found that different age groups will face different types of risks. “Age plays a critical role in shaping health risks from temperatures,” said Gould. “Older adults are particularly vulnerable to cold temperatures, whereas younger adults and children are more affected by heat.”This means that as heat waves increase, younger populations may start seeing more ER trips for conditions that weren't previously associated with climate risks, creating an evolving and unpredictable healthcare challenge.An Urgent Need for Planning and CollaborationExperts involved in the study are calling for hospitals, insurance providers, and public health agencies to act now. Marshall Burke, a co-author and associate professor at Stanford University, emphasized that targeted communication and preparation are critical.“Understanding who is affected, how, and at what temperatures is critical for planning appropriate responses to protect health,” Burke said. “This is true with or without climate change, but a warming climate makes it more important and alters who is exposed to what.”With California already battling issues like drought, wildfires, and poor air quality, this looming healthcare burden adds another layer of urgency to climate preparedness efforts.The findings were published on July 30 in the journal Science Advances. As the climate continues to shift, healthcare systems across the U.S, and especially in heat-prone states like California, will need to brace for a hotter, more hazardous future.

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