Author Affiliations
To the Editor
We have recently witnessed an increase in the number of heat stroke-related cases in Pakistan, with Karachi alone reporting more than 1,500 heat stroke-related cases and multiple deaths each day due to the soaring increase in temperature [1].
From 1920 to 2020, there has been a marked increase in the frequency of heat waves in Pakistan, with a notably sharper rise observed after 1980. This escalation has correspondingly led to an increase in heat-related mortality. [2] This indicates that there has been an increase in the number of heat stroke cases in Pakistan, and the heat stroke mortality trend has increased significantly over the years.
Climate change is one of the primary reasons for the growing number of heat stroke cases since the frequency of heatstroke has increased due to climate change[3]. Other factors include rapid urbanization, which has led to increased deforestation, as well as less awareness about heat-related illnesses, which has led to an increase in cases of heatstroke [4].
The rising trend underscores the urgent need for immediate action. Consequently, it is imperative for the government to implement measures to prevent future fatalities. The government should address climate change by formulating policies and raising awareness. Additionally, primary healthcare services should be fortified to enable early diagnosis and treatment of patients. Moreover, enhancing the alert system to warn the public about impending heat waves is essential [5].
To conclude, the rising trend in heatstroke cases demands immediate action. The government must raise awareness of heat-induced ailments, implement climate change policies, enhance primary healthcare services, and develop efficient heatwave alert systems. These measures are essential to prevent future complications and protect public health.
References
- Farooq M. Doctors treat thousands for heatstroke in southern Pakistan as temperatures hit 117. Los Angeles Times.
Doctors treat thousands for heatstroke in southern Pakistan as temperatures hit 117. - Sharma A, Andhikaputra G, Wang YC. Heatwaves in South Asia: Characterization, consequences on human health, and adaptation strategies. 2022;13(5):734. doi:10.3390/atmos13050734 Crossref | Google Scholar
- Gowen A, Kommenda N, Bashir S. The human limit: Climate-linked ills threaten humanity. Washington Post. 2023.
The human limit: Climate-linked ills threaten humanity. - World Health Organization. Heat and health key facts. 2024. Heat and health
- Beat the heat: Protecting children from heatwaves in Europe and Central Asia. 2023. Beat the heat: Protecting children from heatwaves in Europe and Central Asia
Acknowledgments
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Funding
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Author Information
Corresponding Author:
Rahul Balach
Department of Medicine
Ziauddin University, Karachi, Pakistan
Email: Rahul.22489@gmail.com
Co-Authors:
Muhammad Ibrahim
Department of Medicine
Ziauddin University, Karachi, Pakistan
Abdur Rafay Bilal
Department of Medicine
Ziauddin University, Karachi, Pakistan
Authors Contributions
All authors contributed to the conceptualization, investigation, and data curation by acquiring and critically reviewing the selected articles. They were collectively involved in the writing – original draft preparation, and writing – review & editing to refine the manuscript. Additionally, all authors participated in the supervision of the work, ensuring accuracy and completeness. The final manuscript was approved by all named authors for submission to the journal.
Ethical Approval
Reported as not applicable.
DOI
Cite this Article
Balach R, Ibrahim M, Bilal AR. Heat Stroke in Pakistan: Examining the Trends and Impact Over the Years. medtigo J Med. 2024;2(3):e3062256. doi:10.63096/medtigo3062256 Crossref
