Disparities in Access to Air Conditioning And Implications for Heat-Related Health Risks

Asian-, Black-, and Hispanic-led households are more likely than their White counterparts to lack air conditioning or to reduce basic needs due to home energy bills. This disproportionately exposes them to extreme heat, contributing to heat-related illnesses or deaths, especially in the context of rising temperatures. Efforts to increase access to air conditioning and reducing exposure to extreme heat, especially for underserved communities, can mitigate health risks and disparities associated with heat-related illnesses.