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Wisconsin, July 1999 heat wave: an epidemiologic assessment
R C Rajpal1, M G Weisskopf, P D Rumm
1Bureau of Chronic Disease, Division of Public Health, Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services (DHFS), USA.
WMJ : Official Publication of the State Medical Society of Wisconsin
|October 24, 2000
Summary
Heat-related illnesses caused 21 deaths in Wisconsin in 1999, with the elderly being most vulnerable. Targeted prevention efforts are crucial for high-risk groups during heat waves.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Extreme heat poses significant public health risks.
- Understanding the demographics and risk factors associated with heat-related mortality is essential for effective prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize heat-related deaths in Wisconsin during the summer of 1999.
- To identify demographic and clinical factors contributing to heat-related mortality.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of death certificates.
- Analysis of cases where heat was listed as an underlying or contributing cause of death.
Main Results:
- Twenty-one heat-related deaths occurred in Wisconsin in 1999.
- The elderly, particularly those aged 65-84, experienced the highest mortality rates (2.2/100,000).
- Cardiovascular conditions were frequently implicated as underlying or contributing causes of death.
Conclusions:
- Elderly individuals, those on psychotropic medications, and individuals with chronic diseases (especially cardiovascular conditions) are at elevated risk during heat waves.
- Public health messaging and advisories during heat emergencies should target these vulnerable populations.
- Healthcare providers and caregivers need heightened awareness of heat exhaustion and heat stroke symptoms.