Extreme Heat Impact on the Physical and Psychological Health of People in Ga Mashie, Accra: A Qualitative Study

Maame Adwoa Sam, Regional Institute for Population Studies (RIPS), University of Ghana

Globally, extreme heat is rapidly increasing in frequency, severity, and duration. Human lives are the most threatened, with the urban poor at risk. This study sought to understand the causes and impact of extreme heat on the health of the urban poor. The study was a cross-sectional qualitative study employing focus group discussions. The study was conducted in Ga Mashie, a densely populated poor community in Accra, Ghana. Previous research in the community identified extreme heat as the third community stressor. Data was gathered from six focus group discussions, which were thematically analyzed. Three key insights emerged: First, residents perceive heat as a prolonged period of intense warmth affecting their health and productivity, and extreme sunshine making them sleep outside their rooms. Second, the community perception of the causes of heat was overpopulation, lack of trees and heat from commercial cooking. Third, heat-health impact on community members- physical health leading to dermatological issues, chronic diseases and reproductive issues. Psychological health impact leading to excessive anger and cognitive-emotional instability. A comprehensive approach is recommended, emphasizing on preventive measures like staying hydrated and wearing appropriate clothing and developing and maintaining green spaces to mitigate urban heat islands and provide a cooler environment.

Keywords: Qualitative data/methods/approaches, Health and Morbidity, Population, Environment, and Climate Change, Population and Development

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