![]() ![]() These effects are felt more severely among the vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, people with pre-existing chronic conditions, as well as Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities, those living in poverty and isolation, homeless, and people with disabilities as they have reduced capacity and/or awareness to respond to temperature increases. In addition, more adverse health conditions including heat-related illnesses (e.g., heat stroke, dehydration, acute myocardial infarction) and heat exacerbated illnesses (e.g., renal disease, ischaemic heart disease and mental health disorders) are associated with heatwaves. Heatwaves kill thousands of people around the world each year. More research is urgently required into the cost-effectiveness of heat warning systems’ measures and improving the utilization of the services. However, their effectiveness may be mediated by cognitive, emotive and socio-demographic characteristics. The weight of the evidence suggests that heat warning systems are effective in reducing mortality and, potentially, morbidity. However, barriers, such as costs of running air-conditioners, were of significant concern, particularly to the poor. ![]() Perceived threat of heat dangers emerged as the main factor related to heeding the warnings and taking proper actions. The remaining eight studies investigated people’s response to heat warning systems and taking appropriate actions against heat harms. One study also estimated the costs of running heat warning systems at US$210,000 compared to the US$468 million benefits of saving 117 lives. Demand for ambulance decreased following the implementation of these systems. Six studies asserted that fewer people died of excessive heat after the implementation of heat warning systems. We systematically searched and reviewed 15 studies which examined this. The question therefore is how effective these systems are in saving lives and reducing heat-related harm. To minimize these risks, heat warning systems have been implemented. Heatwaves are associated with significant health risks particularly among vulnerable groups. ![]()
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