Cold Homes Cost Lives

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/05/110512214454.htm

ScienceDaily (May 12, 2011) — Cold homes cost lives and harm the environment, according to a BMJ editorial published to coincide with a report commissioned by Friends of the Earth and written by Professor Sir Michael Marmot.

The report highlights that every year in the UK there are around 5,500 more deaths in the coldest quarter of houses, than would occur if those houses were warm.
The authors, Dr Keith Dear and Professor Anthony McMichael from the Australian National University in Canberra say Marmot's report identifies three gains that could be achieved by improving the insulation in British homes. These are saving lives, protecting the environment and reducing health inequalities.
While elderly people living in cold homes are more prone to heart and lung disease, cold homes can affect health at any age, say the authors. Children are more likely to suffer from breathing problems and adolescents living in a cold house have an increased risk of mental health problems.


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