Climate change is increasing the risk of heart disease, especially in patients with diabetes or high BP: Study

New research has indicated a direct link between climate change and cardiovascular disease, with specific demographics facing heightened risks. Drawing on data from over 7,200 patients treated for acute heart issues at the university's Heart and Vascular Centre between 2017 and 2021, the study uses a sophisticated mathematical model to analyse the daily hospital admissions for cardiovascular diseases, considering factors like patients' sex, age, and cardiovascular risk factors alongside atmospheric parameters over a five-year period.

The findings are deeply troubling. People with diabetes emerged as the most vulnerable group, experiencing a heightened risk of emergency hospitalisation with sudden temperature changes of 5°C or more and elevated ozone levels exceeding 90 µg/m³. Those with high blood pressure also faced increased risks.

Men constituted the next vulnerable group, exhibiting a concerning trend of heightened cardiovascular risk in response to the interplay of weather and pollution. Lastly, individuals aged 55 and above were found to be more susceptible to heart issues due to temperature fluctuations compared to their younger counterparts.

Cardiovascular disease, responsible for nearly 18 million deaths globally each year, is further exacerbated by climate change-related factors, including malnutrition and infectious diseases.

The study sheds light on this alarming trend and underscores the importance of monitoring how air pollution and meteorological factors pose threats to the most vulnerable patient groups. This research has led to the emergence of a new scientific field termed 'cardiometeorology,' focusing on understanding how meteorological parameters impact cardiovascular conditions.