Heat related illnesses

Climate change is significantly impacting workers globally, with the International Labour Organization reporting that nearly 2.4 billion people are exposed to excessive heat at work. In Europe and Central Asia, this exposure has surged by 17.3% over the past 20 years, with recommendations for employers to implement cooling measures and ensure proper hydration. Prolonged heat exposure can lead to serious health issues, including heat exhaustion and heatstroke, and certain medications can exacerbate these risks by impairing the body's ability to regulate temperature. Studies show that specific medications, such as diuretics and antihypertensives, can increase vulnerability to heat-related illnesses. Additionally, new research from the University of Cincinnati indicates a direct correlation between rising temperatures and the frequency of migraines, suggesting that both heat and humidity may trigger headaches. Overall, the combination of extreme heat and medication usage poses a growing health risk that necessitates increased awareness and preventative measures.