HOT weather is responsible for 7.3% of the heart disease burden in Australia, according to a study published in the European Heart Journal today, and most of that impact is fatal.
The study, conducted by researchers from the University of Adelaide, found that during the 15-year period from 2003 to 2018, there were more than 48,000 years of life lost each year to cardiovascular disease attributable to high temperatures.
With the current trend of greenhouse gas emissions, that impact is set to double by 2050, and potentially triple.
South Australia currently has had the highest burden, while the Northern Territory has the lowest, but under projected increases due to climate change, the NT faces the most significant rise.
The research was led by Peng Bi, Professor of Public Health and Environmental Medicine, who explained: "When the weather is hot, our hearts have to work harder to help us cool down.
"This added pressure can be dangerous, especially for people with cardiovascular disease."
"Many of us have experienced how a warming climate can make us feel unwell, particularly during longer periods of extreme heat," hecontinued.
"However, it's still not clear exactly how many people are living with serious heart disease or dying early because of higher temperatures, and we need to understand how this burden will increase in the future."
The research has implications beyond Australia, and while the specific risks may vary depending on local climates, demographics and levels of adaptation, it is likely to be relevant to people in many parts of the world.
"Our research shows that as climate change brings more frequent and intense heat, the risks associated with higher temperatures are likely to increase, especially for vulnerable groups," said Professor Bi.
"It highlights the importance of taking precautions during hot weather, such as staying hydrated, finding cool environments and seeking medical help when needed.
"Our findings also call for urgent investment in adaptation and mitigation strategies, including urban cooling plans, public health campaigns and improved emergency responses during hot weather," he concluded.
Read the full paper HERE. KB
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