Understanding heatwave health risks and vulnerability factors
Summary
This article discusses the health impacts of heatwaves and extreme hot weather, noting that prolonged heat can lead to heat-related deaths and significantly disrupt communities. It highlights that while urban areas face exacerbated effects due to the urban heat island (UHI) effect, non-urban communities are also severely affected. The piece emphasizes that vulnerability to heat is shaped by both physiological factors (age, health status) and exposure factors. The content is part of WHO's "Beat the Heat" initiative under the Sport for Health programme in collaboration with FIFA, aimed at protecting health and safety from extreme heat, air pollution, and UV exposure at workplaces and mass gatherings.
Source
Twitter / XUnderstanding heatwave health risks and vulnerability factorswho.intKey quotes
· 3 pulledHeatwaves, or heat and hot weather that can last for several days, can have a significant impact on society, including a rise in heat-related deaths.
While the effects of heat may be exacerbated in cities, due to the urban heat island (UHI) effect, the livelihoods and well-being of non-urban communities can also be severely disrupted during and after periods of unusually hot weather.
Vulnerability to heat is shaped by both physiological factors, such as age and health status, and exposure factors.
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