Increase in Cardiac Arrests on Italian Beaches Linked to Heatwave

Rome: This summer, Italy is experiencing a worrying rise in cardiac arrests on its beaches, attributed to the ongoing intense heatwave, according to the head of the SIS118 emergency service.

According to Ansa News Agency, SIS118 President Mario Balzanaelli reported a significant increase in sudden cardiac arrests, particularly on beaches, where high temperatures are playing a critical role. Balzanaelli emphasized the urgency of preventing potentially lethal heat-related illnesses and stressed that no one is immune to these risks.

He advised that a few simple, common-sense precautions could be life-saving and urged the public to learn how to protect themselves effectively. In response to the heatwave, SIS118 has developed a decalogue of anti-heat strategies aimed at safeguarding the population, with a particular focus on vulnerable groups such as the elderly and individuals with chronic health conditions.