146 heat-related emergencies in a day: Working-age residents most affected in Bhopal

Bhopal: As the city battles a relentless heatwave, new data from AIIMS Bhopal’s Outpatient Department (OPD) paints a stark picture of who is most affected. 146 emergencies were reported in a single day on Tuesday, with more than a third being new patients, indicating acute impact of extreme heat.

The majority of patients seeking care fall within the 26–45 age group, accounting for nearly 38% of visits. Young adults aged 15–25 make up about 19%, while those between 46–60 represent 18%. Children under 15 contribute 14%, and seniors above 60 just over 10%.

Experts say this skew highlights how the working-age population is bearing the brunt of heat-related illnesses. Women made up a slightly higher share of OPD visits (52%) compared to men (48%), which could reflect differences in health-seeking behaviour during the heatwave.

“Overall there is a surge in cases of dehydration, heat exhaustion and related complications among people who are outdoors or working long hours,” said a senior physician, seeking anonymity.

The relatively lower turnout among seniors may not necessarily mean they are less affected. Experts caution that mobility challenges, delayed reporting or lack of access to healthcare could be masking hidden risks.

“Elderly patients often wait until symptoms worsen before seeking help, which can be dangerous in extreme heat,” noted another doctor.

Public health advocates stress the need for targeted interventions. With temperatures soaring, hospitals in the state capital, remain at the frontline of managing the fallout. The age-wise OPD profile offers critical insight into how the heatwave is reshaping the city’s health burden, underscoring the urgency of coordinated action.