Urban heat stress and health: A systematic literature review of dimensions and indicators for planning and design

Review article, 2026

In recent years, extreme temperatures have gained significant attention in urban studies, leading to the search various adaptation and mitigation measures. While many studies employ heat-related indicators to assess climate-related health impacts, a better understanding of the multi-dimensional nature of these indicators enhance their integration into urban policies, planning and design. This research aims to examine various mensions of urban heat stress in built environments, using a systematic review of scientific articles (n =146) consequently, establishing a framework for effectively stratifying examples of related indicators across different dimensions. The results showcase dimensions including demographic, economic, health, urban climate, social, urban morphology, and institutional. However, literature disproportionately emphasizes demographic, health and climate dimensions, while social, urban morphology and institutional ones receive comparatively attention. On the other hand, the co-occurrence analysis reveals connections among these dimensions and related indicators, underlining the need for a holistic understanding of heat stress impacts. Additionally, spatial distribution of the selected papers brings attention to the lack of studies in the regions identified as exposed according to the Koppen Climate Classification. Accordingly, we advocate for more multidimensional and context-specific studies that bridge existing gaps. This research provides valuable insights for policymakers, planners, urban designers and researchers on advancing the understanding of urban heat stress in built ronments and its impact on urban healh.