Heat-related deaths preventable
NEW YORK, June 11, 1999 (Reuters Health) -- Close to 400 people die
every year in the US due to heat-related illnesses, according to the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Such deaths are
largely preventable, the federal agency notes.
"During 1979-1995, exposure to extreme hot temperatures caused an annual
average of 381 deaths in the United States," according to a CDC report
issued on Thursday.
The youngest and oldest members of the population -- infants and people
over 65 -- are at greatest risk when temperatures are sustained at or
above 105 degrees Fahrenheit during the day, and 80 degrees at night,
note health officials.
"Measures for preventing heat-related illness and death include
spending time in air-conditioned environments, increasing
nonalcoholic fluid intake, exercising only during cooler parts of the
day, and taking cool-water baths," write CDC officials. "Elderly
persons should be encouraged to take advantage of air-conditioned
environments (e.g. shopping malls and public libraries), even if only
for part of the day."
People who live alone, or have cardiovascular disease or respiratory
disease have an added risk for heat-related death. Others with increased
risk include those taking certain drugs, such as antipsychotics, major
tranquilizers, tricyclic antidepressants, antihistamines, some
over-the-counter sleeping pills, and some drugs used to treat
PARKINSON'S disease.
When a heat wave is predicted, families and friends should check
on homebound elderly, and take precautions with children, according to
the CDC. People required to spend time outdoors for work should beware
of signs of heat exhaustion, such as dizziness, weakness, and fatigue.
SOURCE: Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report 1999;48:469-473.
--
Judith Richards, London, Ontario, Canada
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