Course Characterizing Pediatric Discharge Diagnoses Associated with Daily Extreme Heat Exposure

This presentation explores research on the link between daily extreme heat events (EHE)—defined as temperatures exceeding the 90th percentile for the month—and pediatric healthcare visits, including urgent care, emergency departments, and hospitalizations for various health issues. Using a case-crossover study design, we analyzed discharge data from the SLU-SSM Health Virtual Data Warehouse, focusing on pediatric patients from birth to 18 years during the warmer months (May to September) from 2017 to 2022 across a Midwestern healthcare network. We found significant associations between extreme heat and conditions such as dehydration, heat-related illnesses, and infections, particularly affecting vulnerable groups like children aged one to four, males, and those from low socioeconomic status areas. Our findings underscore the need for health promotion in communities and preschools. Enhancing caregiver awareness of heat risks and implementing policy initiatives can help reduce pediatric exposure. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to explore these dynamics and develop effective strategies for protecting vulnerable children from extreme heat.