Children’s emergency department visits for heat-related illnesses increased 170% over past decade

The number of children who sought treatment at emergency departments for heat-related illnesses increased by 170% from 2012–2023 at two large children’s hospitals, according to research presented during the American Academy of Pediatrics 2024 National Conference & Exhibition in Orlando, FL.

The study abstract, “Trends and Outcomes of Heat-Related Illnesses at a Tertiary Children’s Hospital System in the Southern United States, 2012–2023,” examines recent trends, demographics, and outcomes in children with heat-related illness.

The AAP conference takes place at the Orange County Convention Center from Sept. 27-Oct. 1.

“As pediatricians, we see firsthand how excessive heat affects children’s health,” said Taylor Merritt, MD. “The significant rise in heat-related illnesses over the past decade underscores a growing public health concern that warrants further attention and action.”

Summer months with higher peak temperatures were associated with higher heat-related emergency department volume, the abstract states.

In all, researchers analyzed 542 heat-related emergency department encounters. Aggregate heat-related encounters, as a proportion of total emergency department encounters, increased by 170% from 2012 (4.3 per 10,000) to 2023 (11.6 per 10,000). Of all heat-related encounters, 418 (77%) had heat-specific diagnoses, and 131 (24%) had a diagnosis of rhabdomyolysis, a muscle-breakdown often caused by heat stress or prolonged exertion.

When examining the groups separately, most encounters with heat-specific diagnoses, like heat exhaustion and heat stroke, resulted in discharge from the emergency department without the need for admission (96%). However, most of the rhabdomyolysis encounters resulted in hospital admission (63%).

Children presenting with heat-specific concerns were younger and more likely to be Hispanic, use government-based insurance, and live in an area with a lower Child Opportunity Index score, according to the abstract.

“As extreme summer temperatures become more frequent due to a changing climate, we’re seeing a rise in heat-related illnesses, particularly in vulnerable groups like children,” Dr. Merritt said.