TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Extreme weather can affect people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, a long-term lung condition, a recent study from Taiwan shows.

The research, published in Science of the Total Environment, found that both very high and very low temperatures increase the risk of complications and death among COPD patients, CNA reported Monday. COPD inflames and narrows the airways, making it difficult for air to move in and out of the lungs, according to the Health Promotion Administration.

Led by Joint-Appointment Professor Chuang Hsiao-chi (莊校奇) of Taipei Medical University’s Division of Pulmonary Medicine Research, the team analyzed data from more than 3,000 cases across 25 studies worldwide from 2000 to 2024 to assess how extreme temperatures affect people with COPD.

The study found that heat waves mainly increase the risk of death, while extreme cold raises the chances of both developing complications and dying.

During extreme heat, COPD patients face a risk of complications or death 1.16 times the usual level. In cold weather, the risk of COPD-related complications increases to 1.47 times the usual level, and the risk of death rises to 1.32 times the usual level.

Older patients, particularly those aged 60 and above, are more vulnerable to complications or death during sudden temperature changes.

Chuang noted that COPD is one of the leading causes of death worldwide and ranks among Taiwan’s top 10 causes of death. The disease is associated with long-term smoking and exposure to air pollution, and extreme temperatures can further strain both the lungs and the heart.

He advised the public to stay alert during extreme weather, which is becoming increasingly frequent. Wearing a mask outdoors can help reduce exposure to PM2.5, and older adults should be cautious about sudden temperature drops, especially in winter.

Chuang also recommended that healthcare and public health systems implement region-specific protective measures, such as issuing early health warnings before heat waves or cold snaps, ensuring patients have adequate medication and care, and strengthening community medical support to help prevent unnecessary illness and deaths.