Small Island Developing States (SIDS), comprising over fifty countries and territories, face unique socio-economic and environmental challenges that make them extremely vulnerable to climate change. Consequently, the report calls for increased support to enhance these nations' resilience to climate change.
According to the Lancet Countdown 2025 report on 'Health and Climate Change in Small Island Developing States,' the population of these countries continues to bear an 'disproportionate and growing health burden due to climate change.'
Data from the report shows that in 2024, the average number of hours of moderate risk of heat stress during light outdoor activities reached a record high of 3000 hours. Furthermore, in the same year, approximately 4.4 billion working hours could be lost due to intense heat, which is the highest figure since monitoring began in 1990.
Climate change also increases the risk of diseases such as dengue fever, chikungunya, and other mosquito-borne illnesses. Prolonged drought has left over 2.7 million people in a state of moderate or severe food insecurity. In the oceans, warming continues to threaten fisheries, livelihoods, and marine food security across all island nations.
The report warns that adaptation efforts remain limited due to insufficient institutional capacity, fragmented climate financing, and a lack of investment in healthcare. Moreover, only 10 out of 58 SIDS have national plans dedicated to climate adaptation and health. Despite the difficulties, the report notes positive shifts: the capacity to use photovoltaic energy has more than doubled since 2020, and early warning systems are improving.
Thirteen continental districts have received a red alert due to abnormally high temperatures. In several regions, readings above 40 degrees Celsius have been recorded, and minimum values exceed the mark of 20 degrees.
