Prolonged exposure to heat and air pollution can significantly increase the risk of a heart attack, according to a recent study published in the journal Circulation. Epidemiologist Joel Kaufman of the University of Washington emphasizes the combined impact of these two factors, stating that “the two things together are more than a double whammy.” The study, which analyzed over 200,000 heart attack deaths in China, found that the highest risk occurred when extreme heat persisted for several days and was accompanied by high pollution levels. This heightened risk primarily affected older individuals and women.
The study revealed that the risk of a fatal heart attack doubled when a heat wave lasted for four consecutive days, while air pollution levels exceeded 37.5 micrograms per cubic meter. The severity of the risk varied depending on the temperature, with increased odds observed at temperatures ranging from 83 to 98 degrees. Interestingly, the study also identified a correlation between extreme cold and an elevated risk of heart attacks. Yuewei Liu, the senior author of the study from Sun Yat-sen University in China, emphasized the growing concern over the adverse health effects of extreme temperature events, which are becoming more frequent, longer, and more intense. (Read more health study stories.)
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