Extreme heat in Australia: are culturally and linguistically diverse communities more at risk?

Abstract

Background: Several studies have identified that people in ethnic minority groups are at greater risk during heatwaves. However, there is a dearth of information on this issue in Australia despite heatwaves being a common occurrence in summer. With a highly multicultural society, it is important that vulnerable subpopulations are recognised to minimise risks of heat-related morbidity and mortality. Aims: To identify cultural, socioeconomic and linguistic factors affecting vulnerability to extreme heat in culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities and to identify subgroups at risk. Methods: Interviews, focus groups and a workshop were conducted amongst stakeholders from the government sector, non-government organisations, the health sector and CALD communities in three major Australian cities. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Results: Findings showed that people in some CALD communities struggle to cope with extreme heat in Australia where the heat can be different from that experienced elsewhere. Socioeconomic disadvantage, linguistic barriers, low quality housing, cultural factors and health issues contribute to vulnerability, particularly in humanitarian entrants. Those most at risk are older migrants and new arrivals, people in new and emerging communities, low income migrants who lack English proficiency skills, women, and infants. Conclusions: Socio-cultural barriers can place migrants and refugees at risk during extreme heat in Australia. Informing people in their language about ways to sustain health during extreme heat will assist in overcoming barriers. An outcome from this translational research has been an increase in awareness amongst policymakers of the need for equity in access to heat health messages.