Bangladesh is facing growing health and economic challenges due to rising temperatures, warns a new World Bank report released on Tuesday.
The study highlights that increased heat is not only affecting physical and mental health but is also significantly reducing productivity, leading to billions in economic losses.
The report, titled “An Unsustainable Life: The Impact of Heat on Health and the Economy of Bangladesh,” analyzes national temperature and humidity trends from 1976 to 2023 and incorporates findings from a 2024 household survey of over 16,000 people across the country.
Since 1980, the country’s maximum temperature has increased by 1.1°C, while the “feels like” temperature has surged by 4.5°C, due to rising humidity levels. This has resulted in a sharp increase in illnesses such as diarrhea, persistent cough, respiratory diseases, and fatigue. Mental health issues like depression and anxiety are also on the rise, with heatwaves worsening these conditions.
“Extreme heat is not just a seasonal inconvenience. Its impact is far reaching. As we see in Bangladesh that the rising temperature is affecting our health and productivity, and the country’s prosperity,” said Jean Pesme, World Bank Division Director for Bangladesh and Bhutan.
“By building on its experience in climate adaptation and taking a coordinated approach across sectors, Bangladesh can address the heatwave impacts and maintain sustainable growth. The good news is that it can be done, as seen in countries like Singapore and others.”
Dhaka Among the Most Affected
Bangladesh ranks second in the world in terms of population exposure to high temperatures. The capital, Dhaka, is experiencing a heat index that is 65% higher than the national average, making it particularly vulnerable.
The report estimates that in 2024 alone, heat-related health problems caused the loss of 25 million workdays, resulting in economic losses of up to $1.78 billion, or 0.4% of the country’s GDP.
Health Impacts Are Widespread
Health risks are more severe in the summer months, with diarrhea and cough cases doubling compared to winter. Women are disproportionately affected, facing higher rates of heat-induced exhaustion and heat stroke. Mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety increase with heat, with anxiety peaking between ages 50 and 65, and depression rising steadily with age.
“Our analysis shows measurable links between exposure to heat and poorer health outcomes, alongside substantial productivity losses. Like many other countries, Bangladesh faces real risks of lost human capital and productivity,” said Iffat Mahmud, senior operations officer, World Bank and co-author of the report.
“Evidence-based policies and targeted investment for better adaptation measures can improve well-being and livelihoods and secure a healthy future tomorrow,” the official added.
Urgent Action Needed
The report calls for urgent, coordinated action to protect people, livelihoods, and economy from escalating heat risks. The report recommends enhancing national preparedness through a multisectoral approach to dealing with heatwaves and equipping health systems to manage heat-related illnesses.
Adaptation and preventive measures like creating urban green space and collecting granular and accurate weather and health data to inform decisions will help reduce exposure and risks. In addition, international support and public and private financing for mitigating the impacts of global warming on Bangladesh will be important.