DHA awareness on heat stress management

Dr. Muhammad Wasif Alam, Director of Public Health and Safety at the DHA said the purpose of the awareness drive is to ensure that people are protected from heat illnesses while fasting especially those who are working outside, in the sun, during Ramadan as they face high temperatures and high humidity levels.

He said that exposure to hot and humid environment for longer period of time causes the body to produce certain signs and symptoms known as heat illness or heat stress. ‘People need to be aware of this so they can take timely action. A person who suffers from heat stress is likely to have symptoms such as a heat rash, body aches, headaches, weakness, drowsiness and decrease in alertness.’

He said in severe cases heat stress can cause unconsciousness, seizures and death.

He said, the best defence against heat-related illness is to follow some basic preventative measures and to be aware of the dangers of long term exposure to the sun, especially while fasting.

Dr. Lubna Al Shaali, from the public health department at the DHA said that people should be aware of the risk factors which can contribute to heat illnesses. This includes, high air temperature, heat waves and high humidity, low air movement, working in the sun for longer periods of time without frequent breaks, breaking the fast with foods such as tea, coffee, aerated drinks and eating fatty and high salty food in excess as these foods can cause dehydration.

She also said that skipping sahoor and lack of sleep are major contributors that can cause heat stress.

‘Rapid cooling of the body should begin immediately. Immerse body in cold water but not chilled, Loosen clothing, move the person in shade. If the person is unconscious, do not attempt to give fluids by mouth and call an ambulance immediately.’

She highlighted the employers should protect their employees from heat stress by adhering to the mid-day rule, by keeping cool and safe drinking water for those who are not fasting and for those workers who are fasting but may require it in an emergency medical situation.

Workers should get frequent breaks and highlighted that during the first week of Ramadan heat stress is more common as the body takes 5 to 7 days to get used to fasting and working in the heat. Therefore, gradually increase exposure to heat.

She said companies should advice their employees on what constitutes a healthy diet during Ramadan. She advised that people should have a balanced diet with vegetables, fruits, protein, milk, yogurt and some saltine snacks. Avoid fatty meals especially fast-foods like fried chicken, fried potatoes and greasy meals. Avoid drinks which contain caffeine such as tea and coffee as can contribute to dehydration.

She also advocated the importance of not skipping suhoor meals. She said: ‘Some people eat heavy dinners and skip Suhoor. This puts them at a higher risk for heat stress.’