Patients with conditions like epilepsy, migraine, and dementia may face heightened sensitivity to the impacts of climate change. The effects of extreme temperatures, especially heatwaves, can significantly affect the health and daily routines of individuals living with neurological diseases. This connection between brain health and climate disruptions was recently explored in a 16-minute documentary released online on May 18, 2025.
FutureNeuro, the Research Ireland Centre for Translational Brain Science at RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences in Ireland, collaborated with the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) to shed light on this crucial issue. The documentary revealed that recent studies have identified a correlation between rising temperatures and the worsening of symptoms in certain neurological disorders that are sensitive to temperature variations.
One such condition discussed is Dravet syndrome, a rare form of epilepsy that primarily affects children. Even a slight increase in temperature can trigger more frequent seizures and impact brain function in individuals with Dravet syndrome. According to Professor Dr. Sanjay Sisodiya, Chair of the ILAE Climate Change Commission:
“The brain is key to our response to challenges from our surroundings… if the brain is already affected by disease, it may be more vulnerable to the challenges posed by the effects of climate change.”
The documentary underscored that over three billion people worldwide are currently living with various neurological disorders. Prof. Sisodiya emphasized how essential it is to acknowledge and address the repercussions of climate change on individuals with neurological conditions globally as climate crises continue to escalate.
Professor Sanjay Sisodiya’s research published in The Lancet Neurology journal highlighted that extreme temperatures can exacerbate diseases associated with 19 different neurological conditions including dementia, epilepsy, and migraines. Through real-life accounts shared in the documentary, viewers gained insight into the daily struggles faced by those with neurological ailments during extreme weather conditions such as heatwaves leading to social isolation due to their inability to venture outside.
J. Helen Cross, President of ILAE added:
“Climate change poses one of the most significant global health challenges today… its impact on individuals with epilepsy and other neurological conditions is becoming increasingly evident.”
The film not only raises awareness but also advocates for increased funding towards advanced scientific research on this critical intersection between brain health and environmental changes caused by climate shifts.
To deepen our understanding of how rising temperatures affect brain health in relation to climate change dynamics requires leveraging imaging technologies along with genetic advancements including AI predictive models tailored for identifying high-risk populations and developing targeted interventions according to Director Dr. David Henshall from FutureNeuro:
“New imaging and genetic technologies allow us… new treatments or preventative strategies helping reduce heat-related seizure risks.”
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