CaniculePrev: A survey to assess the impact of extreme heat on the population’s well-being and self-reported health
From July 29 to August 14, 2026, Santé publique France launched the national CaniculePrev survey to measure the effects of high temperatures on the population’s self-reported health (physical and mental). As intense and prolonged heat waves become more frequent, it is essential to understand how individuals perceive, react to, and adapt to these extreme weather events in order to tailor preventive measures accordingly.
Survey Objectives
- To measure the impacts of extreme heat on self-reported physical and mental health
- To describe the population’s exposure to these heat waves
- Adjust these results based on individual vulnerabilities, sociodemographic characteristics, the adoption of preventive measures, or risk perception
Who Can Participate?
This online survey is open to a panel of 2,000 people aged 18 and older who reside in mainland France. It is conducted by the Ipsos BVA Institute.
How is the survey conducted?
The study period focuses on heat waves in June and July 2026.
Participants will complete a self-administered online questionnaire that takes about 10 minutes to complete.
This questionnaire will:
- measure the impacts of extreme heat on self-reported physical and mental health prior to seeking emergency care;
- to compare these impacts with key determinants such as:
- housing conditions,
- individual vulnerability to heat,
- sociodemographic characteristics.
- to evaluate the implementation of protective measures such as:
- maintaining a comfortable temperature in the home,
- cooling the body,
- hydration…
What will the results be used for?
The results from CaniculePrev will help inform public health policies and refine prevention messages to better protect the population, particularly the most vulnerable. This survey is intended to be repeated, with the specifics depending on weather conditions and the results of this first wave.
The first results are expected in October 2026.
Contact
For more information about the survey, please email: agnes.verrier@santepubliquefrance.fr
Extreme heat, heat wave
thematic dossier
Heat waves can have a significant impact on health. It is therefore essential to take proper precautions. Certain measures must be put in place, especially for those most at risk.
