Increasing Cases of Heat-Related Illnesses in Children

As global temperatures continue to rise during summer months, an alarming increase in heat-related health problems among children has been observed. Recent research from UT Southwestern Medical Center, published in Academic Pediatrics, highlights a significant surge in emergency department visits for heat-related illnesses. The study reveals that nearly 1 in 5 children seeking emergency care for heat illness required hospital admission, underscoring the severity of the issue.

A comprehensive review of over 2 million emergency department visits across Dallas's Children's Health campuses from May to September over the years 2012 to 2023 showed a 170% increase in heat-related illness encounters. The rise correlates strongly with higher ambient temperatures, emphasizing the impact of climate change on pediatric health.

Heat-related conditions range from mild symptoms like cramps and fainting to severe, life-threatening illnesses such as heat stroke, heat exhaustion, and rhabdomyolysis—a serious condition caused by muscle breakdown due to prolonged exertion in extreme heat. Children are particularly vulnerable because of physiological and behavioral factors. They have a larger surface area relative to their body mass, produce less sweat, and may not recognize early signs of overheating or dehydration.

The study also found disparities based on neighborhood socioeconomic factors. Children living in low-opportunity areas—those with limited access to quality education, parks, clean air, nutritious food, healthcare, and safe housing—were disproportionately affected. Notably, children diagnosed with rhabdomyolysis had a hospital admission rate of 63%, whereas most other heat-related illnesses led to discharge from the emergency department.

Researchers suggest that further investigation into neighborhood influences—such as tree canopy coverage and urban heat island effects—could help identify additional risk factors. The findings emphasize the need for targeted prevention strategies, awareness, and care protocols to protect children from the increasing threats posed by extreme heat.

Understanding these trends can assist clinicians, caregivers, and policymakers in developing effective interventions to reduce pediatric heat illness risks in a warming climate.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-illnesses-children.html