Wisconsin, July 1999 heat wave: an epidemiologic assessment.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the characteristics of heat-related deaths in Wisconsin during the summer of 1999.


METHODS
Review of death certificates indicating heat as an underlying or contributing cause of death.


RESULTS
Heat-related illness led to 21 deaths during the summer of 1999 in Wisconsin. The rate of death was highest in the elderly, particularly those aged 65-84 years (2.2/100,000). Heat was the underlying cause for 12 of the 21 deaths. Cardiovascular conditions were the underlying cause in 8 of the deaths, and a contributing cause for another 7.


CONCLUSIONS
The elderly, persons taking psychotropic medications, and persons with chronic diseases, particularly cardiovascular conditions, are at increased risk of death from heat during heat waves. Prevention messages and weather advisories during heat emergencies must target these groups. Care givers and medical personnel must be on heightened awareness for the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke during these periods.
Rajpal
R C
RC
Bureau of Chronic Disease, Division of Public Health, Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services (DHFS), USA.
Weisskopf
M G
MG
Rumm
P D
PD
Peterson
P L
PL
Jentzen
J M
JM
Blair
K
K
Foldy
S
S
D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D018882:Heat Stress Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000401:mortality* / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012307:Risk Factors; D014922:Wisconsin / Q000453:epidemiology