cardiovascular
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High temperatures linked to increased heart risks, study finds
As record-setting heat strikes the eastern U.S., new research shows that exposure to heat waves significantly raises the risk of cardiovascular problems, according to new research.
In short:
- The study, published in JAMA Cardiology, reviewed 500 observational studies on high temperatures and extreme weather's impact on heart health.
- Researchers found cardiovascular risks increase with prolonged heat exposure, especially in cooler regions without widespread air conditioning.
- Wildfires and extreme weather events like hurricanes elevate cardiovascular disease risks long after the initial events.
Key quote:
“I think we can advance the conversation on climate change. If we point out to people that there are these effects on cardiovascular health, cardiovascular disease is not theoretical or something that is going to happen in the future. This is here and now.”
— Dhruv S. Kazi, associate professor at Harvard Medical School
Why this matters:
The research highlights a stark correlation between heat waves and a surge in cardiovascular issues, including heart attacks and strokes. Vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions, are particularly at risk. The findings emphasize the need for better public health strategies to protect these groups during extreme heat events.
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Photo by Ivars Utināns on Unsplash
How Indigenous lands in the Amazon help prevent deadly diseases
Protected indigenous reservations in the Amazon rainforest absorb thousands of tonnes of airborne pollution each year, preventing respiratory and cardiovascular diseases and saving millions of dollars in healthcare costs, according to a study published this week.
Photo by Marcus Kauffman on Unsplash
Here's exactly how wildfires are polluting our air
Wildfires emit a mixture of hazardous compounds that contribute to cardiovascular and respiratory illnesses when people breathe them in.
Photo by Frank Huang on Unsplash
Correlation between traffic air pollution and stroke admissions in Ireland
Dr Colm Byrne, from the Irish Doctors for the Environment told the Joint Committee on Environment and Climate Action, that air pollution from cars affects respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
www.wired.com
How many people die when polluters exceed their limits?
A new report tallies the death toll from excess emissions by looking at air pollution and spikes in local ozone levels.
www.desertsun.com
Harvard links fossil fuels to millions of 'premature' deaths as California approves fracking
In related news, California approved 11 new fracking permits west of Bakersfield in Kern County.
www.abc.net.au
NSW researchers study how P2 surgical masks could protect people with chronic medical conditions from bushfire smoke
New research will determine the efficacy of surgical P2 masks to protect against bushfire smoke.
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