‘Appears to be increasing over time’
A new study by Swedish researchers found that short-term exposure to both low and high ambient temperatures increases the risk of death in heart failure patients.
What’s going on?
Published research JAMA Cardiology It indicates an association with the risk of extreme heat exposure and death in heart failure patients. Wenli Ni and her team examined data from more than 250,000 heart failure patients who died between 2006 and 2021 in Sweden.
The study showed a statistical association between low and high temperature exposure and an increased risk of all-cause cardiovascular death in patients with heart failure. According to the report: “The risk of death associated with high temperatures appears to increase over time, highlighting the need for adaptation even in high-latitude regions.”
The research revealed that the risk was especially more evident in the 2014-2021 period compared to the 2006-2013 period.
This is not the first study to highlight the link between heat exposure and adverse outcomes in patients with cardiovascular disease. CDC recommends avoiding extremely high temperatures for anyone with significant heart problems.
However, this research one step furtherHe attributes suboptimal temperature exposure to extremes of heat and cold associated with rising global temperatures. Globally about 9.4% The majority of all deaths can be attributed to high and low suboptimal temperatures.
Why is this heat risk study important?
The main finding of this study is that heat risk increases over time; This highlights the need to adapt to rising global temperatures even in regions with generally low heat risk, such as Sweden.
One editorial “As climate change leads to more frequent, prolonged, and intense experiences of extreme heat and cold, understanding the health consequences of NOTs has become a critical priority for clinicians, researchers, and policymakers,” researchers wrote in a paper about the study.
With rising temperatures comes increased risk, so taking action to prepare and educate populations is critical.
Studies have shown that heat risk extends beyond heart failure patients. One study points to social isolation as a risk factor for heatstroke, while others map cities at increased risk of deadly heatwaves. Further research points to the most vulnerable groups, including pregnant women, children, those with chronic diseases and those who work outdoors.
What can be done about the increased heat risk?
As research on heat waves continues to grow, education remains the greatest weapon against this deadly phenomenon. This includes warnings from governments, doctors and scientists. Follow local weather alerts and learn how to stay safe during extremely hot periods.
We can combat heatwaves at their source by continuing to make changes to our lives and policies that can limit the effects of rising global temperatures. These changes range from: switching to solar energy And limiting meat consumption Innovations in the electrification of aircraft.
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