Children are more exposed as they are less able to regulate body temperature.

Older adults experience greater sensitivity to heat, and cold.

Women have smaller lungs and airways, making them more susceptible to issues from pollution and climate stressors like heatwaves.

Outdoor workers face direct exposure to extreme temperatures which raises risks for respiratory diseases.

Low socioeconomic status (SES) groups are more likely to live in heat-prone urban areas with poor housing and limited healthcare access, increasing risks for respiratory problems.

Older adults experience reduced cardiovascular and temperature regulation capacity, and are more likely to have pre-existing heart conditions, heightening their vulnerability.

Women, despite lower overall cardiovascular diseases (CVD) rates than men, are more susceptible to environmentally triggered CVD due to smaller lungs, impaired sweating, and higher heatwave mortality risk. CVD is also harder to diagnose in women.

Pregnant women are vulnerable to heat and cold stress, which can reduce oxygen and nutrient supply to the fetus, increasing risks of preterm birth, low birth weight, stillbirth, pre-eclampsia, and restricted fetal growth.

Outdoor workers face direct exposure to heat and cold, putting extra strain on the heart—especially during physical labor—and increasing risks of hypothermia and cardiovascular events.

People with disabilities face heightened CVD and post-stroke risks due to pollution and temperature extremes. Severe disabilities often limit their ability to manage healthcare or escape harmful environmental conditions.

Low socioeconomic status (SES) groups, including refugees and immigrants, are more exposed to pollution, poor housing, and extreme temperatures. Limited access to healthcare, social support, and health literacy amplifies their cardiovascular vulnerability.

Women may be more physically affected by environmental stress and tend to worry more about climate change.

Outdoor workers are more exposed to temperature extremes, which can affect mental health and job performance, increasing absenteeism.

People with disabilities suffer more from environmental impacts due to physical and mental vulnerabilities, compounded by challenges accessing healthcare and support during extreme weather events.

People with low socioeconomic status (SES) are disproportionately exposed and lack access to green spaces and healthcare, worsening mental health outcomes. Financial and social stressors intensify their vulnerability.