United States: New research from Canadian scientists reveals that hot weather and air pollution are driving up the use of X-rays and CT scans in emergency departments. Dr. Kate Hanneman, an associate professor at the University of Toronto, found that the rates of these scans increase by nearly 5% on days with extreme heat and poor air quality. Over time, this could lead to significant healthcare costs, as reported by HealthDay.
Study Tracks 1.7 Million Scans Over Nine Years
- The study analyzed imaging data from four large hospitals in Toronto between 2013 and 2022, covering 1.7 million scans. Key findings include:
- 5.1% increase in X-rays and 4% increase in CT scans on hot days with high air pollution levels.
- No increase in ultrasound or MRI use during these periods.
Despite improvements in air quality, the trend of higher imaging utilization persists, indicating a strong link between extreme weather events and healthcare demands.
Climate Change Puts More Strain on Emergency Departments
With climate heating up across the globe, many are falling severely sick, and such patients need intervention with imaging for their health. Considering these results, it is critical for healthcare industries to think about and begin preparing for increased occurrences of extreme weather, as reported by HealthDay.
Preventive forward work as a result
Looking at this aspect, Dr. Hanneman points out that considering that the intensity and frequency of heat waves are likely to rise, the pressure is also likely to build up on the emergency departments. This paper aims at analyzing the effects that climate change encompasses in the health care sector to inform solutions for future predicaments.