Higher Temperatures Were Closely Associated with Higher Ambulance Transports in Takamatsu Area, Japan

Abstract

The link between high temperatures and ambulance transports in Takamatsu area, Japan was investigated. Monthly observations for ambulance transports (2004-2008) were obtained from Fire Department Service in Takamatsu. Data of temperatures in Takamatsu area, Japan (2004-2008) were used by Japan Meteorological Agency. Effect of high temperatures on ambulance transports was analyzed. By using data from July to September, there were not clear differences of mean temperatures and ambulance transports among years. Ambulance transports were significantly correlated with parameters of temperatures. Correlation coefficient rate between ambulance transports and the mean temperature of maximum temperatures in a month was highest among parameters (r = 0.738, p = 0.0017). In addition, ambulance transports were also significantly correlated with the number of days over the level of 32?C in a month (r = 0.782, p = 0.0006). Higher temperatures were closely associated with higher ambulance transports in Takamatsu area, Japan.