“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 (Brunel University London).
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: Public Health Impacts of Heat - POST (parliament.uk)