A recent study found that if stricter laws controlling greenhouse gas emissions are not enacted, black and older individuals who are already at risk of cardiovascular disease will be disproportionately impacted by excessive heat-related deaths. If recommended legislation is implemented, it is anticipated that the number of extreme heat-related cardiovascular fatalities will increase by 160% due to the predicted rise in extreme heat days between 2030 and 2060. If it is not put into practice, the number of excess cardiovascular deaths linked to high temperatures will rise by 230%.
Extreme heat can have a devastating impact on human health, particularly on cardiovascular health. As temperatures soar, the body’s ability to regulate its internal temperature becomes compromised, placing increased strain on the cardiovascular system. This strain can lead to a range of cardiovascular complications, including heart attacks, strokes, and other related conditions, ultimately doubling the number of deaths attributable to cardiovascular events during periods of extreme heat.
One of the primary mechanisms through which extreme heat affects cardiovascular health is through its impact on the body’s thermoregulatory system. When exposed to high temperatures, the body responds by trying to dissipate heat through mechanisms such as sweating and increased blood flow to the skin. However, in extreme heat, these mechanisms can become overwhelmed, leading to a dangerous buildup of heat within the body. This places significant stress on the cardiovascular system, as it must work harder to maintain core body temperature within safe limits.
As the body works to cool itself, the heart must pump more blood to the skin’s surface to facilitate heat loss through sweating and radiation. This increased demand on the heart can lead to elevated blood pressure and heart rate, placing individuals at greater risk of experiencing cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes. Additionally, extreme heat can exacerbate existing cardiovascular conditions, such as hypertension and coronary artery disease, making individuals more susceptible to adverse outcomes.
Furthermore, extreme heat can also impact blood viscosity and clotting factors, increasing the likelihood of blood clots forming and leading to conditions such as deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Dehydration, which is common in hot weather, can further exacerbate these risks by thickening the blood and reducing its ability to flow smoothly through the cardiovascular system.
In addition to direct physiological effects, extreme heat can also contribute to the exacerbation of air pollution, which is a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease. During periods of high temperatures, the formation of ground-level ozone and other pollutants is accelerated, leading to poor air quality. Exposure to these pollutants can trigger inflammation in the cardiovascular system, promote the development of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), and increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Moreover, extreme heat can disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, children, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions. Older adults, for example, may have underlying cardiovascular issues or be taking medications that impair their ability to regulate body temperature effectively, putting them at greater risk during heatwaves. Similarly, children and infants have less efficient thermoregulatory systems, making them more susceptible to heat-related illnesses.
Social determinants of health, such as socioeconomic status and access to adequate housing and healthcare, also play a significant role in determining vulnerability to the health impacts of extreme heat. Individuals living in poverty may lack access to air conditioning or be unable to afford the costs associated with staying cool during heatwaves, increasing their risk of heat-related illnesses and cardiovascular complications.
To mitigate the impact of extreme heat on cardiovascular health, a multi-faceted approach is needed. Public health interventions, such as heat health warning systems and targeted outreach to vulnerable populations, can help raise awareness about the dangers of extreme heat and provide guidance on how to stay safe during heatwaves. Additionally, efforts to improve access to cooling centers, provide financial assistance for utility bills, and implement urban planning strategies to reduce the urban heat island effect can help protect individuals from the adverse effects of extreme heat.
Individuals can also take steps to protect themselves during periods of extreme heat by staying hydrated, avoiding outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day, wearing lightweight and loose-fitting clothing, and seeking out air-conditioned spaces when possible. It’s also important for individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions to follow their healthcare provider’s guidance and take any necessary precautions to manage their health during heatwaves.
In conclusion, extreme heat poses a significant threat to cardiovascular health, doubling the number of deaths attributable to cardiovascular events during periods of extreme heat. By understanding the physiological mechanisms underlying this relationship and implementing targeted interventions at both the individual and community levels, we can work towards reducing the burden of heat-related cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.