“Uncovering the Link Between Climate Change and Cardiovascular Disease: A Critical Review”

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death globally, with more than 20 million deaths reported in 2021, according to a recent report by the World Heart Federation. Despite advancements in prevention and treatment, the impact of climate change on cardiovascular health is becoming increasingly concerning.

A study conducted by researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) reviewed 492 observational studies to explore the connection between climate change-related environmental stressors and cardiovascular disease. The findings, published in JAMA Cardiology, revealed that extreme temperatures and hurricanes are strongly linked to increased CVD mortality and incidence, with certain populations, such as older adults and marginalized communities, being disproportionately affected.

The study highlighted various ways in which climate change can impact cardiovascular health, including the adverse effects of extreme heat on heart rate and blood pressure, the triggering of systemic inflammation by exposure to ozone or wildfire smog, and the disruption of healthcare delivery during natural disasters. Additionally, long-term climate changes are projected to affect agricultural productivity and food quality, further compromising cardiovascular health.

The researchers screened over 21,000 studies published between 1970 and 2023, focusing on associations between acute cardiovascular events, mortality, healthcare utilization, and climate change-related phenomena such as extreme temperatures, wildfires, air pollution, and extreme weather events. The results indicated that exposure to extreme temperature and severe weather events significantly increased cardiovascular risk, with some effects lasting long after the initial event.

Notably, the study revealed a lack of data on the impact of climate change on cardiovascular health in low-income countries, emphasizing the need for further research in these regions. The authors stressed the importance of clinicians considering climate change-related cardiovascular risks when assessing patients, especially in vulnerable communities.

The findings underscore the urgent need for action to mitigate climate change-related cardiovascular risks, particularly among at-risk populations. The researchers emphasized the importance of developing contingency plans for patients in areas prone to climate-related disasters and evaluating the resilience of healthcare infrastructure to climate change.

This comprehensive study sheds light on the significant impact of climate change on cardiovascular health and calls for immediate measures to address this growing threat. Further research and collaborative efforts are essential to safeguard the cardiovascular well-being of populations worldwide in the face of ongoing environmental challenges.

Source: Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Journal Reference: Kazi, D. S., et al. (2024). Climate Change and Cardiovascular Health: A Systematic Review. JAMA Cardiology. doi.org/10.1001/jamacardio.2024.1321.