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Assessment of Heat Exposure and Health Outcomes in Rural Populations of Western Kenya by Using Wearable Devices: Observational Case Study.

Ina MatzkeSophie HuhnMara KochMartina Anna MaggioniStephen MungaJulius Okoth MumaCollins Ochieng OdhiamboDaniel KwaroDavid OborTill W BärnighausenPascal ZabréSandra Barteit
Published in: JMIR mHealth and uHealth (2024)
Our study provides a nuanced understanding of the health impacts of weather exposures in rural Kenya. Our study's application of wearables reveals a significant correlation between physical activity levels and high temperature stress, contrasting with other studies suggesting decreased activity in hotter conditions. This discrepancy invites further investigation into the unique socioenvironmental dynamics at play, particularly in sub-Saharan African contexts. Moreover, the nonsignificant trends observed in sleep disruption due to heat expose the need for localized climate change mitigation strategies, considering the vital role of sleep in health. These findings emphasize the need for context-specific research to inform policy and practice in regions susceptible to the adverse health effects of climate change.
Keyphrases
  • climate change
  • healthcare
  • public health
  • physical activity
  • mental health
  • south africa
  • human health
  • health information
  • primary care
  • heat stress
  • depressive symptoms
  • air pollution
  • stress induced
  • adverse drug