Hot, polluted days may double heart attack risk.

Hot, polluted days may double heart attack risk.

The Dangerous Duo: Extreme Heat and Wildfire Smoke Threaten Heart Health

Image Source: HealthDay

Summer in the United States this year has been marked by extreme heat and suffocating wildfire smoke, and it turns out that these conditions pose a significant danger to heart health. A new study has found that days characterized by soaring heat and fine particulate air pollution can double a person’s risk of a fatal heart attack. As global temperatures rise and wildfires become more frequent and intense, this research highlights the direct threat that climate change poses to human health.

The study, conducted by researchers at Sun Yat-sen University’s School of Public Health in Guangzhou, China, analyzed over 202,000 heart attack deaths that occurred in the Chinese province of Jiangsu between 2015 and 2020. They also closely examined local heat index and air pollution measurements for each heart attack to understand the increased risk associated with the combination of heat and smog. Heat index considers both temperature and humidity in its assessment.

Dr. Sanjay Rajagopalan, chief of cardiovascular medicine at University Hospitals Harrington Heart and Vascular Institute in Cleveland, emphasizes the significance of this research. He states that the interaction between wildfire smoke and high temperatures elevates the risk for heart attacks even further. As climate change continues, these dangerous conditions are becoming increasingly common in our everyday lives.

It’s no surprise that air pollution has been linked to an increased risk of heart attacks. Fine particulate matter, which is less than 2.5 microns in size, can penetrate deep into the lungs and irritate both the lungs and the blood vessels surrounding the heart. This particle pollution is a well-known risk factor in cardiovascular health. However, the study also reveals new information about the impact of heat on heart health and how it amplifies the risks associated with air pollution.

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While extreme heat alone poses a heart hazard, the risk of dying from a heart attack doubles on days when extreme heat combines with unhealthy air quality. This combination presents the greatest increase in risk compared to other weather conditions studied. The researchers also investigated the risk posed by cold snaps and found that although extreme cold can increase the risk of a heart attack, it does not significantly amplify the risk when combined with air pollution.

The study sheds light on the physiological effects of heat and air pollution on the body. Both high temperatures and air pollution can increase inflammation and stress in the body. In addition, high temperatures can elevate a person’s intake of air pollutants by increasing blood flow and affecting breathing patterns.

Interestingly, the study also found that women are more likely than men to have a fatal heart attack on days of extreme heat, and seniors aged 80 and older are at higher risk than younger adults. However, it is important to note that everyone is at some level of risk when high heat and air pollution combine. The interactive effects of extreme heat and smog do not vary according to gender, age, or economic status.

Given the growing threat to heart health posed by extreme heat and air pollution, precautions must be taken. Dr. Rajagopalan advises keeping a close eye on air pollution levels reported by weather sites and taking necessary measures when air quality deteriorates. Staying indoors with the help of HVAC systems equipped with good filters or portable air cleaners is a recommended action. When venturing outside, using an N95 filter mask can help protect against airborne particles.

To cope with extreme heat, it is suggested to utilize fans and air conditioners, dress appropriately for the weather, stay well-hydrated, and install window blinds to reduce indoor temperatures. While everyone should be cautious, certain groups, such as people with diabetes, children with respiratory conditions, individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), organ transplant recipients, those with chronic kidney disease, and survivors of previous heart attacks or strokes, should be particularly vigilant in taking protective measures.

This study, published in the journal Circulation, provides clear evidence of the dangerous combination that extreme heat and wildfire smoke present to heart health. As we navigate the challenges of climate change, recognizing and addressing these risks is essential for our well-being.

Sources:

• Yuewei Liu, PhD, Associate Professor, Epidemiology, Sun Yat-sen University School of Public Health, Guangzhou, China
• Sanjay Rajagopalan, MD, Chief, Cardiovascular Medicine, University Hospitals Harrington Heart and Vascular Institute, Cleveland
• Circulation, July 25, 2023