During the hot summer months, more kids visited the emergency department for heat-related problems. From 2012 to 2023, the number of children visiting emergency departments for heat-related illnesses rose by 170% at two large children’s hospitals. This suggests a new study presented at the American Academy of Pediatrics 2024 National Conference & Exhibition in Orlando, FL.
Scientists examined recent trends, demographics, and outcomes in children with heat-related illnesses. The sharp increase over the past decade highlights a serious public health issue that needs more attention and action.
Scientists analyzed 542 heat-related emergency department encounters. From 2012 to 2023, heat-related emergency department visits increased by 170%, from 4.3 to 11.6 per 10,000 visits. Of these cases, 418 (77%) had specific heat-related diagnoses, while 131 (24%) were diagnosed with rhabdomyolysis, a condition often caused by heat stress.
Most children with heat-specific diagnoses, like heat exhaustion and heat stroke, were discharged without needing to be admitted (96%). In contrast, a majority of those with rhabdomyolysis required hospital admission (63%).
The data also revealed that children with heat-related issues were generally younger, more likely to be Hispanic, often used government insurance, and lived in areas with lower Child Opportunity Index scores.
Study author Taylor Merritt, MD, said, “As extreme summer temperatures become more frequent due to a changing climate, we’re seeing a rise in heat-related illnesses, particularly in vulnerable groups like children.”
The AAP conference takes place at the Orange County Convention Center from Sept. 27-Oct. 1.
Abstract Title: Trends and Outcomes of Heat-Related Illnesses at a Tertiary Children’s Hospital System in the Southern United States, 2012-2023.
