Developing maps of occupational risk factors for heat-related illness in Alabama

image: redcrossla.org

Both obesity and strenuous outdoor work are known risk factors for heat-related illness (HRI). These risk factors are compounded by the increasing probability of longer periods of extreme heat in the U.S. under most climate change scenarios. In an attempt to quantify occupational risk and investigate the possible predictive value of a Geographic Information System (GIS)-based tool, we have created a weighted occupation-based Metabolic Equivalent (MET) index. We then determined correlation between current MET-weighted employment rates and obesity rates and HRI report rates in Alabama. The GIS tool allows us to map risk factors and HRI rates. We next plan to conduct a temporal analysis in which we determine the most predictive ambient temperature and humidity for current HRI rates in Alabama in the context of occupational and obesity risk factors, so that environmental health professionals may both identify literal and figurative “hotspots” that may require special attention.