How to live longer: Mortality risk factors may include increases in nighttime temperature

The threat to human health lies mainly in the fact that ambient heat during the night interrupts the normal physiology of sleep.

The effects of reduced sleep quality and quantity can be damaging to the immune system, which in turn increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, chronic illnesses, inflammation and mental health conditions.

Mr Zhang added: “To combat the health risk raised by the temperature increases from climate change, we should design efficient ways to help people adapt.

“Locally, heat during the night should be taken into account when designing the future heatwave warning system, especially for vulnerable populations and low-income communities who may not be able to afford the additional expense of air conditioning.