Why are children more prone to heat injuries during exercise?

Children are more prone to heat injuries during exercise primarily because they tend to overheat much faster than adults. This phenomenon is due to several physiological factors. Children have a higher surface area-to-volume ratio compared to adults, which means they can generate heat more rapidly relative to their body mass. Additionally, their sweating response is not as efficient as that of adults, as they sweat less and may not be able to regulate their body temperature effectively during prolonged physical activity in hot environments.

This combination of factors leads to an increased risk of heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion or heatstroke, particularly when participating in vigorous exercise or during hot weather. Understanding these differences is crucial for ensuring that children remain hydrated and are monitored closely during physical activities, especially under heat stress conditions.