CDC Study Reveals Surge in Heat-Related ER Visits Across U.S. in 2023

A new study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found a significant increase in heat illness-related emergency room visits across the United States in 2023 compared to the previous five years. The highest rates were observed in Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas.

According to the study, heat-related illnesses accounted for a 20% larger share of emergency department visits in 2023. The rate of heat-related ER visits surged above peaks from previous years, reaching over 300 per 100,000 total visits in July and August 2023, nearly 50% higher than the average peak rate from 2018-2022.

All regions of the U.S. experienced at least one day where the rate of heat-related ER visits reached an extreme level, topping 95% of rates from 2018-2023. In the southern region encompassing Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas, ER visits for heat-related illness reached this extreme level for more than a third of 2023's warm season, including a period of 16 consecutive days.

Why this matters: The CDC study highlights the growing public health impact of extreme heat events, which are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change. The findings underscore the need for effective heat mitigation strategies and public health interventions to protect vulnerable populations.

The study found that men and people between the ages of 18 and 64 had higher rates of heat-related ER visits compared to women and other age groups. In total, there were nearly 120,000 heat-related ER visits in 2023, with more than 90% occurring between May and September.

CDC experts emphasize the need for near real-time monitoring of weather conditions and adverse health outcomes to guide public health practitioners in implementing prevention measures associated with extreme heat. "Heat exposure is worsening with increasing global warming," the study authors noted, stressing that effective implementation of heat mitigation strategies is crucial to address this growing public health concern.

The study's findings align with the record-breaking heat recorded across the country in 2022, which has been attributed in part to greenhouse gas emissions and their effects on global warming. The CDC analysis may underestimate the true prevalence of heat-related illnesses, as certain groups, such as children, adults with underlying health conditions, pregnant women, and outdoor workers, are particularly susceptible to the health risks of heat waves.

Key Takeaways

• CDC study found 20% increase in heat-related ER visits in 2023 vs 2018-2022.
• Highest rates in southern states; extreme levels for over a third of 2023.
• Men and ages 18-64 had higher heat-related ER visit rates than other groups.
• Nearly 120,000 heat-related ER visits in 2023, over 90% from May-September.
• Effective heat mitigation strategies crucial to address growing public health concern.