Grant: DRA : Canada Graduate Research Scholarship - Doctoral Program (CGRS D)

Heat waves are becoming one of the most dangerous aspects of climate change in Canada. The 2021 "heat dome" in British Columbia led to 740 excess deaths and showed how deadly heat waves can be, even in a temperate climate. Many who died lived in poverty with chronic illnesses and likely lacked air conditioning. While heat waves are riskier for some groups than others, all heat-related illnesses and deaths are preventable. This project aims to better understand who is most at risk of death during heat waves, the role of indoor temperatures, and the longer-lasting health effects for those who survive. The research will link data from multiple sources, including administrative health records, death records from the BC Coroners Service, and indoor temperature measurements in homes without air conditioning. There are three key research questions: (1) how does extreme heat contribute to deaths investigated by coroners, including those related to drug toxicity, suicide, and violence?; (2) how do high indoor temperatures in low-income households affect health risks?; and (3) did exposure to the 2021 heat dome lead to longer-term health problems among people with chronic conditions, such as dementia? The results of this work will provide new evidence that can help improve both personal and public health. For individuals, the research will highlight specific risks and help identify strategies to prevent heat-related illness and death. For populations, it will improve our understanding of which groups and communities are most affected, ensuring that resources and supports can be better allocated. For the health system, it will contribute to the development of national standards for identifying heat-related deaths, improve guidance on safe indoor temperatures, and generate more information about the long-term health impacts of heat waves. Overall, this research will help strengthen public-health responses to extreme heat and help protect Canadians now and in a warming climate.