Intersecting Risk: Heat and Substance Use in Rural Communities

Abstract

Background: Extreme heat has a direct impact on health and can exacerbate substance use. Rural communities are at high risk given higher rates of hospitalizations for heat related illness and the disproportionate effects of substance use. This commentary explores the connection between heat and substance in rural communities and proposes recommendations within the span of policy, research and practice that can be tailored to fit the local rural context.

Conclusions/importance: If implemented, comprehensive approaches such as Promoting of Local Infrastructure and Safe Spaces, Addressing Structural Health Inequities, Developing Workforce, Developing and Evaluate Public Health Communication Strategies, Engaging the Community in Developing Research, Education and Awareness, and Harm Reduction can lead to systemic changes that will greatly improve the health outcomes of rural communities.

Keywords: Heat; community; community-engaged research; public health; rural; substance-use; workforce development.