The American Heart Association is raising alarm about the dual threat of wildfire smoke drifting from Canadian fires and record summer temperatures, which together create a potentially deadly situation for cardiovascular health. In a press release issued July 16, 2026, the organization emphasizes that while respiratory issues are often the primary concern with wildfire smoke, the cardiovascular impact is equally serious and far-reaching.
"Extreme heat and wildfire smoke each carry major risks, especially for people with chronic health conditions including heart disease. The combination of the two is extremely dangerous," said Manesh R. Patel, M.D., FAHA, volunteer president of the American Heart Association. Patel, who is also chief of cardiology at Duke University School of Medicine, stressed that even individuals without known health conditions can face major cardiovascular events from smoke exposure.
Wildfire smoke contains fine particulate matter that is linked to cardiovascular risk. A study published in Circulation, the American Heart Association's flagship journal, found that the risk of fatal heart attacks nearly doubled during days of extreme heat and high levels of fine particle pollution, with risks even greater for women and older individuals. Another study in the Journal of the American Heart Association reported that heavy wildfire smoke raised the risk of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests by up to 70%, affecting men and women, adults aged 35–64, and communities with lower socioeconomic status.
Previous research from the same group also linked wildfire smoke to increased emergency room visits for ischemic heart disease, irregular heart rhythm, heart failure, pulmonary embolism, and stroke. These findings underscore the importance of protective measures, especially as smoke travels hundreds of miles from fire zones into areas experiencing extreme heat.
Patel offered several tips for reducing exposure: stay indoors with doors and windows closed, use high-efficiency air filters (which can reduce indoor particulate matter by 50–60% according to an American Heart Association scientific statement), and limit outdoor activity between noon and 3 p.m. when temperatures peak. If outdoor activity is unavoidable, he recommends wearing a mask, avoiding exertion, taking breaks in shade or cool spaces, and staying hydrated with water while avoiding alcohol and caffeine. Dressing in lightweight, light-colored clothing and using sunscreen are also advised.
Checking on vulnerable individuals—older adults and those with chronic conditions—is crucial, as is bringing pets indoors. Recognizing signs of heart attack (chest discomfort, upper body pain, shortness of breath, cold sweat, nausea) and heat stroke (body temperature above 103°F, red skin, rapid pulse, confusion) is essential, and calling 911 immediately if symptoms occur can save lives. Knowing CPR can more than double the chance of survival for cardiac arrest.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency provides a zip code-level air quality tracking map at airnow.gov. Patel recommends checking it regularly and staying informed about local health alerts. "Protect yourself, be alert and prepared," he said. "It could be the difference in saving your life or that of someone you love." For more information, visit the American Heart Association at www.heart.org.
