Cardiovascular response to thermoregulatory challenges

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Climate Science

Background:

• Climate change is increasing extreme weather events, impacting public health.
• Ambient temperature significantly affects cardiovascular health, with growing research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent literature on the impact of extreme cold and heat on cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality and morbidity.
• To examine lag effects, vulnerable populations, and underlying mechanisms of temperature-related CVD.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of recent publications on temperature extremes and cardiovascular outcomes.
• Analysis of cause-specific CVD data, vulnerable subgroups, and physiological responses.

Main Results:

• Both extreme cold and hot temperatures are associated with increased cardiovascular deaths and hospital admissions.
• Temperature sensitivity for CVD varies by specific condition (e.g., ischemic heart disease) and population characteristics (age, comorbidities).
• Mechanisms include sympathetic nervous system activation, renin-angiotensin system, dehydration, and inflammation.

Conclusions:

• Extreme temperatures pose a significant risk for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.
• Vulnerable populations require targeted adaptation strategies.
• Further research is needed on mechanisms and multidisciplinary adaptation.