“Heat exposure has significant health implications, including increased risks of pre-term birth, stillbirth, and exertional heatstroke,” states the latest POSTnote, addressing the public health impacts of heat.
The publication includes contributions from Dr Oliver Gibson (ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½).
Key issues examined in the briefing include:
- Heat endangers maternal health, causing pre-term birth, stillbirth, hypertension.
- Physical activity induces exertional heatstroke in hot conditions.
- Alcohol and drugs worsen heat risks by dehydrating and impairing thermoregulation.
- Urban areas experience a phenomenon known as the Urban Heat Island effect, where temperatures are higher than in rural areas, aggravating health problems.
- Building characteristics such as flats and top-floor apartments with poor insulation and ventilation contribute to overheating.
- Care homes face challenges in managing heat-related risks among elderly residents, necessitating better infrastructure and practices.
Read the full POSTnote: