Cuaca Panas – wawancara dalam Wanita Hari Ini

Negara kita kini sedang menghadapi krisis gelombang haba. Cuaca semakin panas dan terdapat banyak laporan mengenai orang yang mendapat strok haba. Orang ramai semakin bimbang dan ingin mengetahui lebih lanjut tentang perkara yang boleh mereka lakukan dalam situasi sedemikian. Dalam wawancara dengan Wanita Hari Ini di TV3, Profesor Dr Victor Hoe memberikan pandangannya mengenai topik tersebut.

Summary of the Interview

In the interview, Prof Dr Victor Hoe, an expert from the University of Malaya, discusses several critical issues related to the health impacts of extreme heat. Here are the key points he addresses:

Health Risks of Extreme Heat:

Dr Hoe emphasizes the significant health risks posed by extreme heat, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions like cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and respiratory issues. He explains that heat stress can exacerbate these conditions, leading to severe health outcomes, including heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

Symptoms and Prevention:

Dr Hoe outlines the symptoms of heat-related illnesses, including heavy sweating, muscle cramps, nausea, dizziness, and in severe cases, confusion and loss of consciousness. He stresses the importance of recognizing these symptoms early and taking preventive measures such as staying hydrated, avoiding strenuous activities during peak heat hours, and seeking shade or air-conditioned environments.

Impact on Outdoor Workers:

The discussion highlights the heightened risk for outdoor workers, such as construction workers and farmers, who are more exposed to extreme heat. Hoe suggests that employers should implement measures to protect these workers, including providing adequate hydration, rest breaks, and shaded areas.

Community and Public Health Measures:

Dr Hoe advocates for community-level interventions, such as checking on vulnerable neighbors and ensuring that public health messages about heat risks and preventive measures are widely disseminated. He also mentions the role of public health institutions in preparing for and managing heatwaves through targeted policies and interventions.

Climate Change and Future Risks:

The discussion touches on the broader context of climate change, noting that the frequency and intensity of heatwaves are expected to increase, which will likely exacerbate the health risks associated with extreme heat. Hoe calls for long-term strategies to mitigate these risks, including urban planning that incorporates green spaces and cooling infrastructure.

Overall, Dr Hoe’s discussion underscores the urgent need for both individual and collective actions to mitigate the health impacts of extreme heat, particularly in the context of a warming climate.