Using Findings of HEAT-MAP Study to Help Elderly Recognise Common Symptoms of Heat-related Illnesses and Seek Timely Medical Advice
Ministry of HealthSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns how findings from the HEAT-MAP study will be utilized to help elderly individuals, particularly those with multiple medical conditions, recognise heat-related illness symptoms and seek timely medical care, as raised by Ms Joan Pereira. In response, Minister for Health Ong Ye Kung stated that the study, conducted across public hospital emergency departments, is funded under the Climate Impact Science Research Funding Initiative from 2026 to 2028. The research aims to assess the epidemiology of heat-related illnesses and evaluate their effects on vulnerable populations like seniors. Minister for Health Ong Ye Kung noted that findings will clarify risk factors, symptom presentations, and healthcare-seeking behaviours to help guide longer-term healthcare planning for rising temperatures. Meanwhile, immediate priorities focus on prevention and early recognition, with vulnerable individuals and caregivers encouraged to refer to the Heat Stress Advisory and exercise greater caution during elevated heat levels.
Transcript
83 Ms Joan Pereira asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health regarding the HEAT-MAP study of heat-related illnesses, how will the Ministry use the findings of this study to help our elderly, especially those suffering from multiple medical conditions, to (i) recognise common symptoms for heat-related illnesses and (ii) seek timely medical advice and assistance.
Mr Ong Ye Kung: The HEAT-MAP study aims to provide a better understanding of current and future epidemiology of heat-related illnesses in Singapore, and their possible effects on vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, particularly those with multiple medical conditions. The study is being conducted across public hospital emergency departments and is funded under the Climate Impact Science Research Funding Initiative from 2026 to 2028.
As the study findings become available, we will use them to better understand who is most at risk, how heat-related illnesses present in our local population and the circumstances in which patients seek medical attention. The findings may also inform our longer-term healthcare planning for the effects of rising temperatures.
In the meantime, our priority is both prevention and early recognition. Members of the public can refer to the Heat Stress Advisory when planning outdoor activities and take the recommended precautions based on prevailing heat stress levels. Seniors and others who are more vulnerable to heat stress should exercise greater caution when heat stress levels are elevated, and caregivers and family members can also play an important role in looking out for signs that they may be unwell.