Incidence of heat-related illness in a Texas emergency department network: a retrospective analysis.

Authors

Colby McClaugherty, Clifford J Buckley, Alejandro Arroliga, Savannah Heath, Andrew Juergens

Published in

Proceedings (Baylor University. Medical Center). Pages 1-5. Aug 20, 2026. Epub Aug 20, 2026.

Abstract

The southern region of the USA including Texas is projected to see increasing temperatures. Heat-related illness (HRI) is a consequence of rising temperatures, and vulnerable populations are disproportionately affected.
This retrospective cohort study analyzed electronic health record data in Central Texas. Subjects presenting to the emergency department with HRI in 2015-2016 and 2022-2023 were identified via International Classification of Diseases codes. Variables collected included age, sex, race, month, and urban-rural status. Local temperature trends were examined.
The overall incidence of HRI increased from 0.08% of total presentations to 0.15% (P < 0.001). Subjects aged 64 to 97 years and Hispanic subjects showed a disproportionate increase. Metropolitan areas had a higher incidence than rural areas. Presentations significantly clustered from May through August. The mean age increased by 5.28 years, while local temperatures did not differ significantly.
The incidence of HRI increased over time, with a higher prevalence among older adults and Hispanic populations. Targeted public health interventions are needed for marginalized communities and older adults in underserved areas to mitigate HRI morbidity and mortality.

PMID:
42623494
Bibliographic data and abstract were imported from PubMed on 21 Aug 2026.

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