This is the fifth annual China report of the Lancet Countdown on health and climate change, the flagship report for tracking progress, or lack thereof, on climate change and health in China. Over the years, what began as the marginal effort of a few dedicated individuals has grown into a considerable movement at the forefront of global climate and health discourse. The report is led by the Lancet Countdown Asia Centre, with contributions from 77 experts across 26 institutions.
Similar to others countries, China is faced with an increase in health threats from hot and dry weather conditions, such as heatwaves, droughts, and wildfires. In 2023, the average number of heatwave exposure days per person reached 16 days, over three times the historical average (1986–2005), which resulted in a 1·9 times surge in heatwave-related deaths. In addition, the higher temperatures resulted in a 24% increase in potential work hours lost, and a 60% rise in reduced time for safe outdoor activities compared with historical averages.
