Hot Flashes and Heat Waves

How climate change is fuelling Women's Hypertension risks. By Dr. Ritu Bhatia

- Dr. Ritu Bhatia

As climate change intensifies, so does its impact on public health—and women are bearing a unique share of the burden. Rising temperatures, increased frequency of heatwaves, and environmental stressors are now being linked to higher risks of hypertension, especially among women. For many, the physiological experience of hot flashes and hormonal shifts during menopause is being compounded by global heat stress, creating a dangerous mix for cardiovascular health.

A growing body of evidence suggests that extreme heat is more than just uncomfortable—it’s a cardiovascular risk factor. According to a 2023 report from the World Bank and The Lancet Countdown, climate change-related heat exposure is associated with a measurable rise in blood pressure, especially among vulnerable populations such as the elderly and women.