The HCSP considers that the real effects of heatwaves (direct and indirect) are not sufficiently informed, particularly in terms of morbidity, whereas heat-related deaths are determined.

It also considers that the available data do not allow to take into account the relative importance of every heat vulnerability factors to the health detriment.

The HCSP recommends the involvement of the academic societies concerned with regard to the health professionals they represent and their patients, in a better knowledge of the heat vulnerability factors and in the development of appropriate prevention measures (formalized therapeutic patient education programs, health promotion actions, clinical practices, etc.).

The HCSP also recommends the development of research through the implementation of specific calls for research tenders and the identification of new health impact indicators.

The HCSP also recommends improving - as early as possible - the identification, detection and support of subjects vulnerable to heat, in particular by appropriate collection, provision and sharing of the necessary information. In particular, it recommends adapting the municipal nominative register to better support the most vulnerable people to the heat.

The HCSP recommends that the experiments necessary for these improvements be carried out as soon as possible, with the aim of optimising the functioning of the existing prevention system.

This work by the HCSP follows a referral from the General Direction for Health on 13 June 2024.