ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has been experiencing a rise in deadly heatwaves due to global warming in recent years and the increasing heat during the summer poses a huge risk to people’s health.
Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Spokesperson Muhammad Saleem Shaikh stressed on the importance of avoiding unnecessary heat exposure to minimize the toll on people’s health.
He warned that the situation could be more problematic and serious for minors and elderly people that weak immune systems.
However, people have to constantly protect themselves from annoying health problems by all possible means, especially by avoiding unnecessary outdoor activities during peak hot hours from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm, he added.
Pregnant Women More Prone to Heatwaves
He stressed that while anyone could be affected by heatwaves, pregnant women seem to be more at risk. It is important that pregnant women avoid going out during high temperatures.
The spokesperson explained that according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study findings, pregnant women are more likely to develop heat stroke, heat exhaustion, or other heat-related diseases sooner than non-pregnant women.
He said that this is because the bodies of both the pregnant woman and the developing baby need to work harder to cool down during harsh summer months.
He added that pregnant women are also more prone to dehydration, which can lead to symptoms such as dry mouth, increased heartbeat, increased thirst, little to no urination, fever, irritability, and diarrhoea.
The official said that keeping the body cool and hydrated is extremely important for pregnant women, and wearing loose-fitting comforting clothes can also regulate body heat and temperature.
