As the U.S. faces an unprecedented heatwave, the American Heart Association has issued a stark warning about the increased risk of heart-related deaths due to extreme temperatures. With forecasts predicting record highs in the Northeast and Midwest, the association emphasizes the need for heightened awareness and preventive measures to protect heart health during the sweltering summer months.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, extreme heat is responsible for over 1,200 deaths annually in the U.S., a number that is on the rise. A study published in the American Heart Association's journal, Circulation, suggests that heat-related cardiovascular deaths could more than double in the next two decades. This alarming trend underscores the urgent need for public education on the risks of heat exposure, especially for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions and those taking certain heart medications.
The association advises those on medications such as beta blockers and diuretics to take extra precautions during heatwaves, as these drugs can exacerbate the body's heat response. Recommendations include avoiding outdoor activities during peak sun hours, wearing appropriate clothing, staying hydrated, and recognizing the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which can be life-threatening.
With the health implications of rising temperatures becoming increasingly severe, the American Heart Association's guidance serves as a critical resource for safeguarding heart health in the face of climate change. For more information on how to stay safe in the heat, visit heart.org.
