Climate Change and Health: What Every Expat Needs to Know

The effects of climate change on health are wide-ranging and increasingly severe. Rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and changing ecosystems contribute to various health risks, including:

• Heat-related illnesses such as dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Extreme heat events kill thousands annually. A 2023 European heat wave caused around 1,500 deaths attributable directly to warming from climate change. 
• Poor air quality increasing respiratory and cardiovascular disease risk. In 2016 In Southeast Asia, haze from wildfires led to hospitalisation spikes and thousands of premature deaths.
• Vector-borne diseases such as dengue and malaria, spreading into new regions as warmer climates allow mosquito populations to expand
• Waterborne illnesses linked to flooding and poor sanitation
• Mental health impacts caused by environmental stress, trauma and displacement from extreme weather events

Expats may be exposed to new or heightened risks, especially when moving to regions where local populations are already adapting to these changes.

Climate change affects different regions in distinct ways. Here are some key region-specific health risks:

• Southeast Asia: High humidity and worsening air quality can exacerbate respiratory issues. Urban flooding is becoming more frequent.
• Southern Europe: Increasing heatwaves pose risks for heat-related illnesses and can affect food and water supplies.
• Sub-Saharan Africa: Changing rainfall patterns and water scarcity contribute to malnutrition and waterborne diseases.
• Australia and New Zealand: Rising UV radiation levels heighten the risk of skin cancer. Extreme weather events, such as bushfires and cyclones, are more common.
• South America: Expanding mosquito ranges are increasing the prevalence of vector-borne diseases.

Being aware of these risks enables expats to prepare effectively and choose destinations that match their health profile and lifestyle needs.

In tropical Singapore, rising temperatures and humidity present a live illustration of climate-driven health risk. Between 1980 and 2020, the annual mean temperature rose from 26.9°C to 28.0°C. From 2010 to 2020, between 71 and 124 residents per year were hospitalised for heat-related illnesses and that number is likely underreported. 

A study from the National University of Singapore (Project HeatSafe) analysed heat exposure and productivity among workers in sectors like construction, services, and manufacturing. It found that by 2035, heat stress could reduce workforce productivity by 14 per cent, resulting in an economic loss of SGD 2.22 billion annually.  Individuals lost around SGD 21 per hot workday, equal to about 24 per cent of daily income.

These examples show how heat stress can affect both mental and physical wellbeing: especially for those living in unfamiliar tropical climates.

Certain groups of expats may face higher health risks related to climate change:

• Older adults and young children are more vulnerable to heat and poor air quality.
• Individuals with pre-existing conditions may find their health affected by environmental changes.
• Expats in rural or under-resourced areas may have limited access to healthcare facilities or emergency services.

Moreover, adjusting to a new country can be stressful in itself, and adding climate-related health concerns can increase anxiety or overwhelm. Preparing ahead of time can make a big difference.

Staying healthy in a changing climate requires awareness and proactive habits. Here are some practical tips for expats:

• Research your destination: Understand the local climate trends and seasonal patterns.
• Stay hydrated and dress appropriately: Especially important in hot and humid regions.
• Protect yourself from the sun: Use high-SPF sunscreen, wear hats, and avoid direct exposure during peak hours.
• Use insect repellent and sleep under nets in mosquito-prone areas.
• Install air purifiers or use masks in places with high air pollution levels.
• Monitor local health advisories for weather warnings or disease outbreaks.
• Plan for emergency situations: Know evacuation routes and prepare a basic medical kit.

Having reliable health insurance is essential for expats facing climate-related health challenges. Ensure your plan includes:

• Emergency medical care and evacuation services
• Access to specialists for respiratory, dermatological, or infectious diseases
• Preventive care and vaccinations
• Mental health support

Allianz offers comprehensive international health insurance designed for expats. With a wide global network and 24/7 multilingual support, Allianz Care helps expats access the care they need when they need it most.

Climate change is reshaping the way we live, work, and take care of our health: particularly for those living abroad. By staying informed, choosing destinations carefully, and taking preventative measures, expats can protect their health and well-being in a warming world.

Whether you're relocating for work, lifestyle, or retirement, understanding the intersection between climate and health is essential. With the right knowledge and support from partners like Allianz, you can embrace global living with confidence and peace of mind.

Protect your health abroad. Explore Allianz’s international health insurance plans to get reliable coverage as an expat.