Strategies to reduce the health impacts of heat exposure

Exposure to high temperatures (e.g., heatwaves) is associated with adverse health outcomes. Given the ongoing climate change trajectory, heatwaves are increasing in frequency and intensity, and they will impact more and more countries and regions. To generate knowledge on mitigating the health risks of heat exposure, we proposed a six-level adaptation intervention strategies framework (SLAIS) throughout this chapter.

SLAIS is based on the six essential steps for quality intervention development (6SQulD). It consists of individual adaptation strategy, interpersonal adaptation strategy, community adaptation strategy, institutional adaptation strategy, environmental adaptation strategy, and public policy adaptation strategy, which are associated and can reinforce each other.

Facing the unavoidable climate change and rising ambient temperatures, people should pay substantial attention to the health impacts of heat exposure. By enhancing the coordination of six-level adaptation intervention strategies in allocation, communication, education, advocacy, policy reformation, and improvement of health services, this SLAIS framework aims to establish a collaborative, practical, adaptive, and sustainable strategy system, to reduce the heat-related burden for the public.