Kingdom's safety measures reduce Hajj heatstroke and deaths
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Heat-related deaths and strokes during the Hajj have decreased by 47.6% and 74.6% respectively over 40 years due to Saudi Arabian government interventions, according to a study published in May.
The study, titled “Escalating climate-related health risks for Hajj pilgrims to Mecca,” was conducted by the King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA). Despite a 0.4 degrees Celsius per decade rise in Makkah's temperatures, the government's measures have been effective.
The study, published in the Journal of Travel Medicine, analyzed the link between rising ambient temperatures during Hajj and health conditions. Measures include mist fans to cool the air in open spaces, water distribution, umbrellas, air-conditioned transport options like the Mashaer train since 2010 and awareness campaigns alongside free healthcare services.
The government has also implemented long-term strategies, integrating environmental engineering and building design to improve natural ventilation and reduce temperatures at holy sites. Increased shaded spaces and efforts to reduce overcrowding are part of these measures.
The annual Hajj attracts millions of pilgrims from over 180 countries, making the KFSHRC study valuable for global temperature rise planning and response. The KFSHRC is the top-ranked medical brand in the Middle East and North Africa for the second year in a row and 20th globally according to Brand Finance. It is among the top 250 hospitals globally according to Newsweek magazine.