Marc Pourroy (Université de Poitiers)

Marc Pourroy 
Université de Poitiers

Coauthor: Hamza Bennani

Abstract

Heat waves are becoming more frequent in France, raising concerns about their public health impacts. Existing studies highlight the role of temperature and individual risk factors in heat-related morbidity, generally focusing on large cities such as Paris, while overlooking nonfatal consequences and smaller urban areas. Using healthcare service areas as the spatial unit, we examine how exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity shape vulnerability to extreme heat. Our results show that high temperatures and social isolation significantly increase hospital admissions and emergency visits, while wealth and vegetation help mitigate health risks. In contrast, age, deprivation, and education do not significantly influence vulnerability, suggesting that economic resources are more critical for adaptation than traditional social risk factors. These findings challenge common assumptions about the drivers of heat vulnerability and highlight the importance of targeted policies—such as strengthening social support networks for isolated individuals—to reduce heat-related health risks in a warming climate.