This time the Hajj pilgrimage is being organized in the hottest month of Mecca and in such a situation, lakhs of Hajj pilgrims are at risk of heat stroke. The elderly pilgrims and those suffering from chronic diseases are at the greatest risk.
Millions of Muslims are going to perform Hajj this month, but the scorching heat in Mecca has increased the risk of heat-related diseases among pilgrims. More than 20 lakh Muslims from all over the world come here for Hajj. This year the annual Hajj pilgrimage is expected to last for six days between June 14 and June 19.
The temperature in Mecca can cross 50 degrees Celsius during this time. This can pose a threat to the health of pilgrims, especially the elderly and those already suffering from various diseases. Last year, more than 2,000 pilgrims were affected by the heat during the Haj pilgrimage. The risk of heat stroke for pilgrims increased five times due to a 1.5 degree Celsius increase in global temperature compared to the pre-industrial period.
The Saudi Arabian government is considering new strategies to use advanced rainfall enhancement techniques such as cloud seeding to reduce extreme heat for the convenience of pilgrims and to provide relief from the scorching heat. Other measures to reduce the effects of heat include providing free water, misting stations and good healthcare facilities. These campaigns will encourage pilgrims to wear light clothing, drink plenty of water and limit daytime activities.
The Hajj pilgrimage is compulsory for all adult Muslims who are financially and physically able to perform the Hajj at least once. It is the fifth pillar of Islam and the most important expression of Islamic faith and unity. It is the largest pilgrimage of its kind in which people gather in a small and geographically limited area during extremely hot and dry weather.
Older pilgrims and those with chronic illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease who visit the holy site are at higher risk of heat-related illnesses. They also carry heavy loads, go out in the afternoon and visit the Masjid al-Haram multiple times a day, making them more vulnerable to health risks posed by Mecca’s heat and humidity.
Exposure to extreme heat leads to a variety of illnesses. A study conducted among Saudi pilgrims found that 18.4 percent had chronic health problems. Diabetes was the most prevalent (55.7 percent), followed by hypertension (60.7 percent), heart disease (7.5 percent) and asthma (11.5 percent).
Pilgrims come from diverse backgrounds and different countries. Some pilgrims come from warm tropical countries and can adjust better to hot weather, while pilgrims from countries with colder climates cannot tolerate the extreme heat of Mecca. Pilgrims who have previously traveled to Mecca are better able to manage heat-related risks based on their prior knowledge and experience.
Hajj authorities around the world and health officials in Malaysia, Indonesia and Pakistan have played a vital role in educating pilgrims about heatstroke prevention. Awareness and implementation of preventive measures can ensure a safe and enjoyable Hajj for all.
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