PETALING JAYA: Event operators must pay close attention to weather conditions and ensure proper medical preparedness as Malaysia faces increasing heat.
Public healthcare specialist Prof Dr Sharifa Ezat Wan Puteh of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia warned that outdoor sports during a heatwave could lead to serious health complications, especially among those with underlying medical conditions.
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“Medical teams should stand by at all times, while hydration stations and cooling packs must be readily available,” she said.
“Participants may also need health screenings beforehand to ensure they are physically fit and less susceptible to heat stress.”
During a heatwave, there is a risk of dehydration and excessive loss of minerals through sweat and urine, she noted.
“This becomes more dangerous for individuals with impaired kidney functions or diseases such as diabetes, kidney failure or kidney stones,” she explained.
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Runners, Dr Sharifa added, could also develop heatstroke, a severe and potentially fatal condition triggered by intense physical activity in hot and humid environments.
She explained that heat exhaustion often occurs before heatstroke, and recognising early symptoms could prevent the condition from worsening.
“Symptoms include tiredness, weakness, headache, dizziness, sweating, cramps, heat rash, increased heart rate and reduced urine output,” she said.
Dr Sharifa advised runners experiencing such symptoms to immediately cool down, loosen their clothing, rest in shade, drink water and use cooling methods such as cold towels or ice packs.
“A person suffering heatstroke may have a temperature above 40°C, red skin, confusion, seizures, loss of consciousness and no sweating.
“This is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment, including intravenous fluids,” she said.
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Dr Sharifa also advised runners to stay hydrated, wear light and loose-fitting clothing, apply sunscreen and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.
Meanwhile, Eventure Global chief executive officer and 113 Triathlon Series founder Andy Foo said organisers are strengthening medical and hydration support during endurance races.
“For our event, we have three to four ambulances, motorcycles, e-scooters and more than 20 medical personnel,” he said, adding that water stations are placed every 1.2km along race routes.
“We also try to flag off participants as early as possible while prioritising safety, especially for children participating in shorter categories,” he said.
He advised runners to wear caps or visors, use sunglasses and hydrate before, during and after races.
“Train your body in the heat. If you estimate your run time is at 10am, train at that hour instead of at cooler times,” he said.
