Predisposing Factors for Exertional Heat Illness

Exertional heat illnesses constitute an array of medical conditions comprising mild (heat syncope, heat rashes, exercise-associated muscle cramping, and heat exhaustion) to life-threatening disorders (exertional heat stroke). It is imperative that individuals, practitioners, and policymakers are well informed about the risk of and predisposing factors to exertional heat illnesses. Primary among these risk factors is heat stress which is the result of the combined effects of protective equipment or clothing, metabolic rate, and environmental conditions. Heat stress is a known hazard to both physical performance and health (e.g., exertional heat illness risk). Modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors are discussed as well as preventative strategies to mitigate the influence of heat stress and exertional heat illness risk.