With rising temperatures every day, the risk of heart disease grows. A new study published in the European Heart Journal reveals that rising temperatures could increase heart disease cases twofold or even threefold over the next 25 years if climate trends persist.

In a research first of its kind linking heart disease and heat, Australian researchers, analyzing data from the Australian Burden of Disease Database (2003-2018), found that hot weather and rising temperatures could increase heart disease cases and are already stripping away 49,483 years of healthy life annually due to cardiovascular issues. This alarming research underscores the pressing need to address climate change as a public health emergency.

Hot weather accounts for thousands of lost years of healthy life each year in Australia, tied directly to heart disease. Extreme weather drives 7.3% of cardiovascular disease and deaths, a notable share linked to climate. By 2050, this burden could double or triple, per projections using Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) scenarios. This research is the first globally to explore heat’s impact on heart health deeply.

How Heat Hurts the Heart

The Lead author of the study, Jingwen Liu, notes that while the study centres on Australia, the heat-related heart disease link applies globally. High temperatures force the heart to pump harder to regulate our body temperature and cool us down. This, with consistent heat and summer weather, strains the cardiovascular system. Those with pre-existing conditions are at a higher risk of severe outcomes such as worsened conditions or even death, Professor Peng Bi from the University of Adelaide explains.

Also Read: RBI Will Strengthen Climate Resilience In India’s Financial System, Says Governor Malhotra

Steps to Take

Professor Bi is also concerned with public health and wellbeing and urges investments in climate adaptation to safeguard public health. Cooling solutions include ideas such as more urban green spaces, heatwave awareness campaigns, and stronger emergency plans. Future planning, in line with the study’s insights, can shape strategies to lessen climate-related health risks.

“Without action, heart disease cases will surge, overwhelming healthcare systems,” Bi cautions.

Also Read: 400+ Olympians Urge To Make Climate Action A Top Priority Ahead Of Leadership Change