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BHRF
Policy statement

WHO Health Economic Assessment Tool (HEAT)

HEAT is an online resource made available by the World Health Organisation to estimate the economic savings resulting from reductions in mortality as a consequence of regular cycling and/or walking. (HEAT, 1)

It is based on best available evidence, with parameters that can be adapted to fit specific situations.Default parameters are correct for Europe but the tool has been adapted for use in other parts of the world too. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are adapting the tool for use in the United States of America.

HEAT calculates the answer to the following question: “if x people cycle or walk y distance on most days, what is the economic value of mortality rate improvements?”

HEAT can be used to evaluate many scenarios, such as the consequences of infrastructural or other changes that result in either more or less cycling. It can also be used to estimate the impact, in terms of lives saved or lost and financial cost, of helmet laws that lead to reduced cycling.

An international advisory group has overseen the development of this tool.

Examples

HEAT analysis, United Kingdom
An assessment of its impact if a helmet law were to be introduced in the UK

Evaluation of New Zealand's bicycle helmet law
Use of HEAT suggests that the law may have contributed to around 53 additional premature deaths each year.
Clarke CF. New Zealand Medical Journal, 2012;125(1349).

References

HEAT, 1

HEAT economic assessment tool for cycling and walking. World Health Organisation.

See also