Caleb Blackburn, Margaret M. Sugg, Sophia Ryan & Jennifer D. Runkle
Extreme temperature events, such as heatwaves and coldwaves, are increasingly recognized as significant environmental factors influencing adolescent substance use, yet their geographic variability remains underexplored. This study identified distinct spatial clusters of substance use-related emergency department visits among North Carolina youth during these temperature extremes, highlighting the need for targeted, place-based prevention strategies that address both climate adaptation and behavioral health risks.
