WHO reported a 63% increase in heat-related deaths since the 1990s

WHO has issued recommendations for protecting health during mass events, including major sporting competitions, religious and cultural events. The organization said that health problems caused by heat during such events have become a serious threat to public health.

According to WHO estimates, since the 1990s the number of fatal heat-related cases has increased by 63%. In 2012–2021, an average of 546,000 such deaths were recorded worldwide each year.

WHO also concluded that with proper organization of medical care, more than 90% of patients can receive treatment on site. According to the organization, this significantly reduces the burden on hospitals and emergency services.

Among the most effective measures, WHO named access to safe drinking water, adjusting event schedules, managing crowd flows, and high-quality medical care. The organization believes that the safety of such events cannot depend solely on the behavior of individual people.

WHO called for improving risk assessment and investing in preparation and response even before the air temperature reaches dangerous levels.