FORENSIC MEDICAL ANALYSIS OF CHILD MORTALITY FROM EXTREME TEMPERATURES IN UKRAINE

Introduction. Child mortality due to extreme temperatures is a significant issue in Ukraine, requiring comprehensive study due to the impact of extreme weather conditions and social factors, amplified by the conditions of war. Aim. To analyze forensic medical data on the causes of child mortality from exposure to high and low temperatures during the period 2019–2022, identify risk factors, and develop recommendations to reduce mortality rates and improve the effectiveness of preventive measures. Materials and methods. The study material consisted of annual reports from the Ukrainian Bureau of Forensic Medical Examination, which included data on the causes of death in children—particularly those attributed to extreme temperatures. Statistical methods, including the calculation of percentages and confidence intervals, were employed using open-source software. Results. The analysis revealed that from 2019 to 2022, the number of child deaths from high temperatures increased from 16 to 19 cases, mostly among children under 12 years old, with a tendency for higher mortality rates among girls. Mortality from low temperatures remained stable, averaging five cases per year, predominantly among boys. The highest mortality rates were observed in the 12–18 age group, indicating the influence of social and behavioral factors. In 2022, due to the war, the overall number of violent deaths among children significantly increased, but deaths from temperature extremes remained stable. Deaths from high temperatures demonstrated an increasing trend. Conclusions. Mortality from high temperatures predominates, especially among children aged 7–18, while mortality from low temperatures remains less frequent and stable. Boys are more frequently affected by lethal extreme temperatures, and the war in 2022 led to an increase in violent deaths among children, highlighting the need for enhanced safety measures. The data indicate the impact of the extreme conditions of war on children's safety. Meanwhile, mortality from extreme temperatures remained stable, indicating the need for stronger measures to protect children from the consequences of war and extreme climate conditions.