Which factor is LEAST likely to increase a person's risk of heat-related illness?

The factor that is least likely to increase a person's risk of heat-related illness is adolescent age. While adolescents can experience heat-related conditions, they often have more robust physiological adaptations to heat due to their generally higher levels of fitness and physical activity. Their bodies can efficiently dissipate heat, especially when they are acclimatized to warm environments.

In contrast, individuals with certain medical conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease, may have compromised thermoregulation, making them more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. The use of methamphetamine can increase metabolic rate and elevate body temperature, also raising the risk for heat-related issues. Moreover, individuals with healed full-thickness burns over a significant portion of their body may have impaired skin function which can affect their ability to regulate temperature effectively, thereby increasing their vulnerability during high heat conditions.