Britain’s rising temperatures pose a ‘serious health risk’, experts warn, amid fears that heatwave-related injuries and illnesses will strain the already overburdened NHS.
Britain could enjoy the hottest day of the year so far today as temperatures are expected to rise to 33 degrees Celsius after some areas endured an official heat wave for the first time since June.
But health experts fear that large parts of the population, especially the elderly and people with dementia, will be affected by heat-related illnesses, increasing demand for NHS services.
NHS buildings are already ‘ill-equipped’ to cope with the rise in mercury to levels normally reserved for the early summer months, with hospitals often experiencing overheating incidents, with some even forced to cancel operations or to close sections if the temperature rises.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has upgraded its heat health alert to orange in all regions of England, with the exception of the North East, where a yellow alert is in effect.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has upgraded its heat health alert to orange in all regions of England, with the exception of the North East, where a yellow alert is in effect
Britain could enjoy the hottest day of the year so far today as temperatures are expected to rise to 33 degrees Celsius after some areas endured an official heat wave for the first time since June. But health experts fear that large parts of the population, especially the elderly and people with dementia, will be affected by heat-related illnesses, increasing demand for NHS services. Pictured, another day with rising temperatures brings people to Bournemouth beach in Dorset today
The six-day warning, which began yesterday and will run until Sunday evening, warns of higher death rates and ‘significant impact’ on vulnerable people and the NHS.
Dr. Adrian Boyle, president of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine, told MailOnline: ‘We know that climate change is making our summers hotter, and society needs to recognize and consider the serious health risk posed by extreme heat.
‘Last summer we saw temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius and there were over 3,000 extra deaths due to the heat.
“Hot weather is particularly at risk for people who are frail or have dementia and may be less able to respond to their body’s warning signals.
“People with mental ill health – especially those taking antipsychotic drugs – are also disproportionately affected, as are people who are homeless and may not be able to find shelter or easy access to water.”
He added: ‘Our advice would be to make sure people check anyone who is older, has existing health conditions or weaknesses.
“Try to stay out of the heat as much as possible and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of non-alcoholic fluids.”
Dr. Layla McCay, policy director at the NHS Confederation, said: ‘Extreme weather could put additional pressure on the NHS in terms of demand and affect the health of some people.
‘Extreme heat or cold can also put additional pressure on often outdated and poorly equipped NHS buildings and estates.
“Temperatures this summer have not yet reached extremes, but health leaders still want to encourage the public to stay safe in the sun and stay hydrated during the current warm weather.”
A major problem is that heat exhaustion is caused by the body’s inability to cool itself down.
It can cause dizziness, excessive sweating and lead to potentially fatal heat stroke.
The Met Office said areas in West Yorkshire, Cornwall, Devon and Wales met heat wave criteria yesterday, with more regions expected to be added to that list today.
While the highest UK temperature recorded in West Sussex yesterday was 30.7 degrees Celsius, forecasters said a new record is likely to occur today or tomorrow.
About thirteen weather stations have now marked this period as an official heat wave, lasting at least three days in a row, with daily maximum temperatures reaching or exceeding the heat wave temperature threshold – a figure that varies by region.
Autumn has started in an unseasonably warm fashion after a disappointing summer when Britain experienced its sixth wettest July since records began.
A UKHSA spokesperson also told MailOnline today: ‘We may start to see some health impacts on the wider population, and an increase in health risk for those over the age of 65 or those with pre-existing health conditions, including respiratory and heart problems. – disease. .
‘The UKHSA Adverse Weather and Health Plan provides guidance for the NHS and care home managers or those caring for vulnerable people.
“It outlines the key areas where the public sector, the independent sector, the voluntary sector, health and social care organizations and local communities can work together to maintain and improve planning and response during periods of warm weather.”
Dr. Agostinho Sousa, head of extreme events and health protection at UKHSA, added: “Many of us will be welcoming the warm weather in the coming days, but it’s important to take sensible precautions while enjoying the sun and look out for those who more affected by the heat. vulnerable to the effects of heat.
‘We recommend that you check with older relatives, friends or neighbours, and with people with heart or lung conditions.
“Staying hydrated and cool is crucial for everyone during hot weather, while enjoying the sun.”
If the warmest day of 2023 is reached this week, it would mark the first time since 2016 – and before that the 1950s – that Britain’s hottest day of the year has occurred in September.
In addition, the highest temperature of the year has occurred in September in just four years over the last century.
It’s because the Alzheimer’s Society also issued its own warning this morning about the effects of warm weather on people with dementia.
For people with dementia and memory problems, dehydration is a ‘common challenge’, the charity said, advising that families and carers could help by leaving glasses or jugs of water within reach.
Sharing a drink with the person, leaving reminders to drink, and providing food with a high water content were some of the main tools suggested.
Jelly Drops, or “water sweets,” are another alternative way to stay hydrated and boost daily water intake.
The colorful candies, supported by Alzheimer’s Society, are bite-sized, sugar-free candies with 95 percent water and added electrolytes.
Anna Smith, head of engagement at the Alzheimer’s Society, said: ‘People should definitely enjoy the nice weather we finally have, but it’s important to note that high temperatures can lead to serious health problems for people with dementia unless they take special precautions. take to keep cool and well hydrated.
‘People with dementia may forget to drink enough water and to wear suitable clothing. With temperatures rising this week, we are urging families and carers to contact people with dementia to make sure they stay hydrated, wear light clothing and stay out of direct sun.
“If you drop by to check on a neighbor, friend or family member with dementia, you can keep them safe during the warm weather.”