Heat makes emergency rooms busier. Study shows which illness and injuries rise during hot spells
Summary
A study of nearly one million hospital visits in Chicago from 2011 to 2023 found that hot weather leads to more emergency room visits for a wide variety of health problems. When temperatures rise above about 92.6 degrees Fahrenheit (33.7 Celsius), cases of accidental gunshot wounds, kidney problems, skin conditions, varicose veins, and mental health issues related to marijuana increased.Key Facts
- Researchers analyzed 916,404 emergency and urgent care visits in Chicago between 2011 and 2023.
- When daily temperatures reached 92.6°F (33.7°C) or higher, more than a dozen types of injuries and illnesses became more common.
- Accidental gunshot wounds increased more than 30 times on hot days compared to cooler days.
- Other health issues that rose included kidney complaints, skin problems, varicose veins, and mental health effects linked to marijuana use.
- The study was published in the journal Science Advances.
- Experts say this research shows that heat worsens many health problems and increases pressure on healthcare systems.
- The study focused only on Chicago but has relevance to other places experiencing hotter temperatures due to climate change.
- Heat-related illness is not only about heat stroke but also includes many indirect effects on health and safety.
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