Hot weather increases cardiovascular disease burden in Australia

A new study has found that rising temperatures in Australia are causing nearly 50,000 years of healthy life to be lost each year due to cardiovascular disease. Experts warn this figure could double or triple by 2050 if climate change is not addressed. The research, published in the European Heart Journal, highlights the serious effects of heat on heart health. Professor Peng Bi from the University of Adelaide explains that high temperatures force our hearts to work harder, which is especially risky for people with existing heart conditions. To measure the impact, researchers analyzed data from 2003 to 2018, using a method called Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs). They discovered that about 49,483 years of healthy life are lost annually from heat-related heart disease, primarily due to premature deaths. Looking ahead, projections suggest that under moderate emissions, the number of healthy years lost could increase to nearly 90,779 by 2030, and possibly 139,828 by 2050. If emissions continue to rise unchecked, these figures could jump to 95,343 by 2030 and 161,095 by 2050. While the study focuses on Australia, its findings are relevant worldwide. Higher temperatures are linked to increased risk of heart disease in many countries. Professor Bi notes that understanding this trend is important for planning future health strategies. The research calls for urgent action to address the problem. Suggested solutions include creating more green spaces in cities, launching public health campaigns to raise awareness about heat-related risks, and improving emergency healthcare responses for affected individuals. Overall, the study serves as a reminder that climate change is a pressing public health issue. Immediate action is needed to protect vulnerable populations and reduce the health impacts of extreme heat in the future.