Older, chronically ill more at heat risk

OTTAWA, Aug. 24 (UPI) -- Older people -- those age 60 and older -- and people with chronic disease are at higher risk in excessive heat, researchers in Canada said.

The study, published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, found people age 60 and older are the most vulnerable to heat waves, with 82 percent to 92 percent more deaths than average occurring in this age group.

Dr. Glen Kenny of the University of Ottawa and colleagues said physiologic studies show the ability to detect heat is reduced, and the physiological response to heat with adequate blood distribution and sweating to cool the body is slower, in otherwise healthy older individuals compared to younger people.

Kenny said older people and those with chronic conditions have less ability to respond to thirst is also delayed and they take longer to recover from dehydration.

The study also found people of lower socioeconomic groups, lower levels of education and those who are socially isolated are at greater risk of mortality from heat.

Air conditioning is associated with a risk reduction of heat stress by 80 percent and working fans with a 30 percent reduction.