Investigating the Risk Perception of Arbaeen Pilgrims Regarding Heat Stroke

Introduction: The Arbaeen walking ceremony is a significant religious event that draws millions of people to the Arbaeen terminals in Iraq annually. Like other mass gatherings, this religious activity can cause numerous health concerns. Heatstroke is one of the main concerns in this event. This study was conducted to assess the risk perception of Arbaeen pilgrims with regard to heat stroke in 2023. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study assessed statistical population which included everyone who participated in the Arbaeen Walk in 2023. The sampling was random. The sample size was determined by using the statistical formula: (1067 people). The data collection tool was a demographic information checklist and a researcher-made questionnaire to assess the risk of heat stroke. The data was analyzed using SPPS24 software, descriptive statistics, t-tests, and variance analysis. Results: The average score of people's risk perception based on cognitive, functional, physical, and psychological dimensions was 4.12 +/- 31.36, 1.88 +/- 16.92, 3.31 +/- 23.35 and 25.28 +/- 5.15, respectively. Also, the mean and standard deviation of the total risk perception score was 96.92 +/- 14.47. 51. Eighteen percent of pilgrims were in a good situation regarding risk perception. The results showed that the average score of people's risk perception based on age, gender, and level of education were significant in all dimensions (P=0.00). Conclusion: According to the study results, the studied pilgrims had a high-risk perception of heat stroke. Public training for climate risk reduction management should be promoted and widely implemented to prevent heat stroke.