In the month of July we will focus on maintaining good health and overall wellbeing as we get through the hottest weeks of the year! These tips come to us from our friends at Clinicians for Climate Action New Jersey by way of our colleague Jennifer Garefino.
Week 1: Keeping Safe and Having Fun While At-Risk
Climate Change & Heat-Related Health Impacts
- Urban heat island effect and climate change are increasing heat-related health risks, especially for our friends here in the Camden area. In similar urban areas there were as many as 527 heat-related deaths in 2024, disproportionately affecting men (77%), Black individuals (30%), and people experiencing homelessness and substance use, especially stimulants
Heat-Related Illnesses
- Heat stroke occurs when one’s body temp >40°C / 104°F and is accompanied by mental status change, organ failure risk, fatal if untreated. Though a less appreciated risk in humans (and our pets) is pavement burns, which are more likely above 105°F, and associated with longer hospital stays and worse outcomes. But there are also “silent” illnesses like cardiovascular events, kidney injury, stroke, infections, lung issues, and cognitive impairments.
Heat & Special Populations
- Pregnancy & newborns: Increased risks of preterm birth, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and birth defects.
- Mental health: Higher rates of suicide, psychiatric ER visits, cognitive issues in kids.
- Most at risk: Elderly, low-income individuals, children, isolated/unhoused, those on medications.
- Parkinson’s and MS patients may have impaired temperature regulation.
💊 Medications & Heat Risks
- Many medications impair thermoregulation or fluid balance, including:
- Diuretics, ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, anticholinergics, psychiatric meds, stimulants
- Heat affects drug storage, stability, and effectiveness.
- Photosensitizing drugs (e.g., doxycycline, NSAIDs, diuretics) can cause skin reactions in sun.
☀️ Stay Safe and Have Fun in Hot Weather
🧊 Stay Cool
- Avoid direct sunlight during peak heat (10 AM – 4 PM); seek shade or go indoors.
- Use fans, cooling towels, or take cool showers to lower your body temperature.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored, breathable clothing (e.g., cotton or moisture-wicking fabric).
- Use cooling products like vests, neck wraps, or portable misting fans.
💧 Stay Hydrated
- Drink plenty of water regularly—even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can increase dehydration.
- Carry a refillable water bottle when outdoors.
🧴 Protect Your Skin and Eyes
- Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) and reapply every 2 hours.
- Wear sunglasses with UV protection and a wide-brimmed hat.
🏠 Prepare Your Environment
- Keep your home cool: close blinds, use fans/AC, and limit oven use.
- Identify nearby cooling centers or air-conditioned public spaces.
- Plan outdoor activities in early morning or late evening.
⚕️ Know the Signs of Heat Illness
- Heat cramps: Muscle pain/spasms—rest and hydrate.
- Heat exhaustion: Fatigue, nausea, sweating—move to shade and drink fluids.
- Heat stroke: Confusion, hot dry skin, fainting—call 911 immediately.
👶🏾🧓🏽 Check on Vulnerable People
- Infants, elderly, people with chronic illness, and those on medications are at higher risk.
- Never leave children or pets in parked cars.
🏃♀️ Stay Active, Smartly
- Exercise indoors or during cooler hours.
- Take frequent breaks and hydrate.
- Use cooling aids during outdoor recreation (e.g., wet bandanas or mist bottles).
💊 Handle Medications with Care
- Store medications in a cool, dry place (68–77°F); avoid cars and direct sunlight.
- Ask your pharmacist about heat-related side effects or storage precautions.