Expert Available to Discuss Prevention of Heat Stroke

Brendon McDermott, University of Arkansas assistant professor of kinesiology and a certified athletic trainer, researches hydration, heat illness and ways to prevent sudden death. He is available to comment on the prevention and treatment of heat stroke in both sport and outdoor work.

McDermott serves on the Medical and Science Advisory Board of the Korey Stringer Institute at the University of Connecticut and was the featured physiology expert on the new documentary “108 Degrees: Critical Response,” produced by the Arkansas Educational Television Network. He is chairing the National Athletic Trainers Association updated position statement on fluid replacement for athletes, which will be released in 2015.

“Students who are taking part in all kinds of activities – sports, marching band, cheerleading – that require them to exercise outdoors need to be sure to acclimate themselves gradually to the heat and to keep themselves hydrated by drinking appropriate amounts of fluids. Parents also need to educate themselves; it’s vitally important that their kids are taking care of themselves in terms of getting adequate sleep, eating well, and drinking plenty of fluids before and after exercise when they are on their own,” McDermott said.

He uses an environmental chamber in the University of Arkansas Human Performance Laboratory, as well as outdoor field studies, to conduct research on the prevention and treatment of exertional heat stroke. His research applies to athletes, to others who exercise in the heat, and to people who work outside in extreme weather conditions.

More information: http://kins.uark.edu/11118.php

Contact:Brendon McDermottassistant professor of kinesiologyUniversity of Arkansas479-575-4670, [email protected]

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