A growing number of people are suffering the consequences of extreme heat. According to a Forsa survey commissioned by DAK-Gesundheit, almost one in three surveyed people reported experiencing health issues due to high temperatures. The most common symptoms reported include fatigue, sleep problems, and circulatory discomfort. Sectors such as elder care, hospitals, and childcare facilities are noted as being particularly vulnerable. Furthermore, public anxiety regarding extreme weather is rising, with nearly two-thirds of respondents expressing great or severe concern.
Three-quarters of those surveyed simultaneously deemed the current heat protection measures insufficient. Andreas Storm, CEO of DAK-Gesundheit, called for the federal government, states, and municipalities to significantly enhance heat protection plans. He stressed that improvements must specifically benefit older adults, chronically ill individuals, and children.
The survey found that health problems attributed to heat have increased by ten percentage points over the past three years, affecting 30 percent of respondents. Women are disproportionately affected, reporting health issues 40 percent of the time, nearly double the rate of men (21 percent). The largest group reporting symptoms was adults aged 30 to 44, at 35 percent. Additionally, 38 percent of people living in large cities reported suffering from these health issues.
The “Heat Report” conducted by DAK-Gesundheit surveyed 1,519 residents aged 18 and older online via the Forsa Institute. This survey was carried out from June 22 to July 1, 2026.
