Heat-Related Disorders Among Community Populations

Abstract

Abstract Average ambient temperatures are increasing and heat waves are becoming more frequent, more intense, and longer in duration. Heat-related disorders and heat-related complications of underlying medical conditions are becoming more frequent. High-risk populations include older people, pregnant people, and young children; those with underlying medical conditions; individuals of low socioeconomic status; and those without access to air conditioning. People living in urban areas are often at greater risk for heat-related morbidity and mortality because of the urban heat island effect. Measures for prevention include developing and implementing heat response plans with heat-warning systems, making cool environments available, and educating the public about the risks of heat-related disorders and measures to lower these risks.