Deaths From Heart Disease Increase on Extremely Hot or Cold Days

A new study has found that extremely hot and cold days can increase the risk of death from heart disease. Climate change is likely a key factor, with extreme temperatures being location-specific. The study compared deaths caused by cardiovascular events on the hottest and coldest 2.5% of days in each city with cardiovascular deaths on the days with optimal temperatures. It found that hot temperatures were associated with a 12% higher risk of death from heart failure, and cold temperatures were associated with a 33% greater risk of dying from ischemic heart disease, a 32% greater risk of death from ischemic strokes, and a 37% greater risk of dying from heart failure. On average, extreme temperatures accounted for 2.2 additional deaths per 1,000 on hot days and 9.1 additional deaths per 1,000 on cold days. To protect one's heart on extremely hot and cold days, it is advised to avoid outdoor activities, bundle up when going out on cold days, and stay hydrated when it is hot.