Work

How resilient is the general population to heatwaves? A knowledge survey from the ENHANCE project in Brussels and Amsterdam

Year: 2016

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Studies have shown an increase in mortality and morbidity during heatwaves, especially among the elderly. We assessed the knowledge of the general population of Brussels and Amsterdam on groups at risk and protective measures for heat-related health effects. RESULTS: Six locations with mixed populations were selected in each city. Passer-by's in both cities were asked to participate in a short survey. Respondents in Brussels (n = 120) had significantly more knowledge on risk groups and protective measures than respondents in Amsterdam (n = 133). In both cities, individuals with higher education had better knowledge on risk groups and protective measures than individuals with lower education. CONCLUSIONS: Efforts at heat-awareness raising must be strengthened, especially in Amsterdam, and public health actions should effectively target vulnerable groups with lower education in both cities.

Source: BMC Research Notes

DOI: 10.1186/s13104-016-2305-y

Authors: Joris Adriaan Frank van Loenhout, Debarati Guha-Sapir

Institution: UCLouvain

Language: English

Topic: Climate Change and Health Impacts

Subfield: Health, Toxicology and Mutagenesis

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,690