A study conducted by researchers from Pusan National University, South Korea, revealed that people with disabilities are disproportionately affected by heatwaves, leading to a rise in hospitalizations due to extreme heat exposure.
The researchers examined the impact of heat exposure on emergency admissions during the warm seasons in the country, from June to September.
Examining individuals with four types of disabilities—physical, brain lesion disorders, vision, and hearing impairments—the study, published in The Lancet Planetary Health journal, revealed that this demographic faced double the risk of hospitalisation compared to the general population, particularly due to mental and respiratory illnesses.
The researchers identified a fourfold increase in emergency admissions and sevenfold higher medical costs among people with disabilities.
Additionally, individuals with brain lesion disorders and severe physical disabilities, as well as women and those over 65 years old, were found to be particularly vulnerable to extreme heat within this demographic.
The authors noted that the findings underscored disparities in admissions and medical expenses between individuals with disabilities and those without. They emphasised the importance of informed public health policies to support and address the specific needs of this demographic.
