elmundo.es
High Temperatures Increase Health Risks in Young Adults: Spanish Study
A Spanish study found that high temperatures increase emergency room visits and hospital admissions in people under 65 due to ischemic strokes and acute kidney failure, not just heatstroke, as observed in six heatwaves between 2005 and 2021 at Mallorca's Son Espases University Hospital.
- What are the key health impacts of high temperatures on individuals under 65, according to this Spanish study?
- A Spanish study published in the International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health reveals that high temperatures significantly increase emergency room visits and hospital admissions in individuals under 65, not only due to heatstroke but also ischemic strokes and acute kidney failure. The research, conducted at Mallorca's Son Espases University Hospital, analyzed data from six heatwaves between 2005 and 2021.
- How does high temperature affect blood composition and kidney function, leading to increased risk of ischemic strokes and acute kidney failure?
- The study unexpectedly found that younger individuals were more affected than the elderly, highlighting the impact of high temperatures on blood viscosity and kidney function. Increased body temperature thickens blood, increasing the risk of clots and reducing blood flow to the brain, contributing to ischemic strokes. Dehydration caused by sweating also reduces blood flow to the kidneys, leading to acute kidney failure.
- What public health measures should be implemented to address the rising health risks associated with extreme heat, particularly in younger populations?
- This research underscores the need for broader public health strategies to mitigate the health risks associated with extreme heat, particularly among younger populations. Future studies should investigate the long-term effects of heat exposure on cardiovascular and renal health, and inform targeted interventions to prevent heat-related illnesses.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing emphasizes the surprising impact of heat on younger individuals, which might unintentionally downplay the overall health risks associated with extreme heat. The headline, if it existed, would likely reflect this emphasis. A more balanced framing would acknowledge the risks across all age groups.
Language Bias
The language used is mostly neutral and objective. However, phrases like "mercurio" (mercury) to refer to temperature could be replaced with a more direct and less metaphorical term like "high temperatures".
Bias by Omission
The article focuses primarily on the impact of heat on younger individuals, potentially overlooking the effects on older populations, who are also vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. While acknowledging the unexpected findings regarding younger patients, a more balanced perspective encompassing the vulnerability of older adults would strengthen the article.
False Dichotomy
The article doesn't present a false dichotomy, but it could benefit from mentioning other contributing factors to heat-related illnesses beyond the ones discussed (e.g., pre-existing conditions, access to healthcare).
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the negative impact of high temperatures on public health, leading to increased emergency room visits and hospital admissions for individuals under 65 due to heatstroke, ischemic strokes, and acute kidney failure. This directly affects SDG 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.