Thu Sep 26 14:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Dhaka Faces Rising Diarrhoea Risk Due to Climate Change
**Dhaka, Bangladesh** – A new study published in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases warns of a significant increase in diarrhoea hospitalisations in Dhaka, Bangladesh, due to rising temperatures caused by climate change. Researchers analyzed nearly 3 million diarrhoea cases treated at a major Dhaka hospital between 1981 and 2010, finding a strong correlation between higher daily temperatures and increased diarrhoea risk for all age groups, even after accounting for other factors like rainfall and humidity.
The study projects that even if global warming is limited to 1.5 to 2°C, as targeted by international agreements, diarrhoea cases in Dhaka could rise by 4.5% to 7.4% by the end of the century. Children under 5 years old are particularly vulnerable, with potential hospital admissions increasing by 5.7% to 9.4%.
“This research highlights the urgent need for Dhaka to prepare for managing and preventing diarrhoeal diseases in the future,” said lead author Farhana Haque. “The city faces a number of environmental and societal challenges, including urban heat island effect, poor water quality, and inadequate sanitation, which are all exacerbated by climate change.”
The study found that the risk of diarrhoea increased immediately after a temperature rise, highlighting the need for swift action to mitigate the effects of rising temperatures. The authors recommend implementing strategies to improve water quality, sanitation, and hygiene, as well as promoting awareness campaigns about the dangers of diarrhoea and the importance of prevention.
This research adds to the growing body of evidence demonstrating the serious health risks posed by climate change, particularly in vulnerable regions like Dhaka. The findings underscore the need for global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the changing climate to protect public health and ensure a sustainable future.
First Piper 