 The study aimed to develop a standardized definition for heat waves and estimate their impact on mortality in Europe during summers 1990 to 2004 and 2003. Heat waves were classified by intensity, duration, and timing during summer, and the effect was estimated as a percent increase in daily mortality during heat wave days compared to non-heat wave days in people over 65 years. The study found great geographical heterogeneity among cities with an increase in mortality ranging from plus 7.6% in Munich to plus 33.6% in Milan. The impact was up to three times greater during episodes of long duration and high intensity. Pulled results showed a greater impact in Mediterranean than North continental cities with the highest effect observed for respiratory diseases and among women aged 75 to 84 years. In 2003, the highest impact was observed in cities where heat wave episode was characterized by unusual meteorological conditions. The study concludes that prevention programs should specifically target the elderly, women, and those suffering from chronic respiratory disorders to reduce the impact on mortality. This article was authored by Bessanti Liligi, Kovatsari, Atkinson Richard, and others. We are article.tv, links in the description below.