Browsing: heat stress

A recent study revealed that high temperatures can exacerbate conditions like gestational diabetes and thyroid disorders among pregnant women, raising alarms in hot climates like Asia. Scientists from Singapore and Britain recently concluded a review of medical research dating back to the 1940s and found that heat affects hormones and the endocrine system, which is responsible for creating and releasing those hormones.

Following the tragic death of a six-month-old baby reportedly due to “heatstroke,” the Department of Health (DOH) reiterated its call for vigilance. They requested highlighted surveillance, especially by parents and guardians. The incident highlights the critical need for awareness and preventive measures during periods of intense heat.

Southeast Asian countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and the Philippines have been experiencing record-breaking heat. These recent extreme temperatures have led to heat stress-related consequences like agricultural disruptions and power outages. In South Vietnam, whole rice fields dried up. Additionally, schools were suspended in the Philippines after temperatures rose above 42 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, across Thailand, temperatures soared and broke records continuously for 13 months!

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Singapore’s National Environment Agency (NEA) has unveiled a pioneering heat stress advisory offering real-time information on heat stress risks in various regions of the island. Developed with the Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment (MSE) and the Ministry of Health’s (MOH) heat stress guidelines expert panel, this advisory is designed to help the public adapt to escalating temperatures.