Community responses and health-seeking behavior during elevated temperature in Chinese population

The negative impact of extreme temperatures on human health is explicitly documented. Evidence has shown that heat waves have led to increases in morbidity and mortality in populations, particularly among the elderly. Studies also indicate, however, individual practices may modify the health impact of extreme temperature health. This study examines the community responses and individual health seeking behavior during elevated temperature in Chinese population

Design and Subjects: A population-based, cross-sectional, random telephone survey using last birthday method, was conducted in Aug 2008. A study questionnaire, based on the International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) guidelines for health sectors towards Climate Change and Health, was developed to understand community response in elevated temperature in Hong Kong, China. The study population comprised of land-based non-institutional population of all ages, including foreign/local domestic helpers residing in Hong Kong. A pilot study was conducted to ensure validity and reliability of the modified instrument. Data from local community group, Citizen Home Safety Association (“SCHSA”), was also solicited to support the comprehensiveness of the analysis.

Results: Patterns of community response and descriptive statistics, stratified by age, gender and education level of individual help seeking behavior during elevated temperature were reported. Multivariate analysis were also conducted to identify demographic predictors of community response.

Main outcome: Predictors of community response and help seeking behavior were identified. This findings serve to develop evidence based public health policy and program to improve public protection from adverse impact of elevated temperature as a result of climate change.