Fact Check: Only 21 of 57 WHO Europe countries reported having a national heat-health action plan.

Fact Check: "Only 21 of 57 WHO Europe countries reported having a national heat-health action plan."

What We Know

The claim that "only 21 of 57 WHO Europe countries reported having a national heat-health action plan" is supported by data from the World Health Organization (WHO) and related research. According to a WHO survey conducted in 2019, the number of countries in the WHO European Region that had implemented heat-health action plans (HHAPs) was indeed limited, with only 21 countries reporting such plans. This survey was part of an effort to assess the preparedness of member states in addressing health risks associated with extreme heat events, which have been increasing due to climate change.

The importance of HHAPs is highlighted in WHO guidance, which emphasizes that these plans are essential for mitigating the health impacts of heatwaves and ensuring public health systems are prepared to respond effectively (WHO guidance). The guidance outlines that effective HHAPs should include various components such as early warning systems, public health advice, and strategies for protecting vulnerable populations (WHO planning).

Analysis

The claim is corroborated by multiple credible sources, including WHO publications and peer-reviewed articles. The PMC article discusses the context of HHAPs within the European framework and indicates that while there is a push for these plans, many countries still lack comprehensive strategies. The WHO guidance document further reinforces this by detailing the characteristics and core elements of effective HHAPs, as well as providing examples from countries that have begun to implement these plans.

However, it is important to note that the effectiveness of these plans can vary significantly based on local conditions and the specific health risks faced by different populations. The updated evidence from WHO emphasizes the need for more countries to develop and implement HHAPs, suggesting that while 21 countries have made progress, there is still a significant gap in coverage across the region.

The reliability of the sources is high, as they originate from reputable organizations like the WHO, which is a leading authority on public health. The data presented is based on systematic surveys and reviews of existing literature, making it a credible foundation for the claim.

Conclusion

The claim that "only 21 of 57 WHO Europe countries reported having a national heat-health action plan" is True. The evidence from WHO surveys and guidance documents clearly supports this assertion, indicating that while some progress has been made, a substantial number of countries in the European region still lack effective heat-health action plans necessary to combat the health risks associated with rising temperatures.

Sources

1. Heat health action plans: a European perspective - PMC
2. Heat-health action plans: guidance
3. PDF Heat and health in the WHO European Region
4. Heat and health in the WHO European Region: updated evidence for ...
5. Planning heat-health action - World Health Organization (WHO)
6. How summer heat impacts health and how to #KeepCool