Dysnatremia in a changing climate: A global systematic review of the association between serum sodium and ambient temperature
Authors' conclusion
Higher ambient temperature is consistently associated with an increased incidence of hyponatremia. We infer that hyponatremia presentations are likely to rise with increasing global temperatures and the frequency of extreme heat events secondary to climate change. Evidence-based public health messages, clinician education and reduction in fossil fuel consumption are necessary to reduce the expected burden on healthcare services worldwide.
Study context
- Population
- Studies assessing the effect of elevated outdoor temperature or humidity on serum sodium; MEDLINE and Embasestudies, 23 countries
- Participants
- 34 studies
- Comparison
- Elevated temperature or humidity vs a comparator
- Outcome
- Relationship between climate measures (outdoor temperature, humidity) and serum sodium concentrations
Methodological detailsreported in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, 1466 potentially relevant studies screened
- Reported in accordance with PRISMA guidelines
- 1466 potentially relevant studies screened
Pooled result
As reported in the abstract
Studies reporting a significant association between outdoor temperature and dysnatremia
30 of 34, 88%
Further pooled results
Humidity
- Humidity had a less consistent effect
Vulnerable subgroups
- Increased vulnerability to heat-associated dysnatremia in individuals aged >65 years, children, those taking diuretics and antidepressants, those with chronic renal impairment or undertaking physical exertion
Risk of bias
- Risk of bias high in all but four studies
Original publication
Dysnatremia in a changing climate: A global systematic review of the association between serum sodium and ambient temperature. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf). Published 18 April 2024. doi:10.
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