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06:01
A Thrombotic Stroke Model Based On Transient Cerebral Hypoxia-ischemia
Published on: August 18, 2015
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Climate Change and Stroke: A Topical Narrative Review
Anna Ranta1,2, Janice Kang1, Ali Saad3
1Department of Medicine, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand (A.R., J.K.).
Stroke
|March 4, 2024
Summary
Climate change, driven by greenhouse gases, is increasing stroke risk through higher temperatures and air pollution. This review highlights the urgent need for attention to climate change impacts on stroke incidence and mortality.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Neurology
- Climate Science
Background:
- Accumulating atmospheric greenhouse gases are altering global climate patterns.
- Rising ambient temperatures and extreme weather events are linked to adverse health outcomes.
- The specific impacts of climate change on stroke require comprehensive review.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize published evidence on the links between climate change and stroke.
- To discuss pathophysiologic mechanisms, vulnerable populations, and mitigation strategies.
- To identify current research priorities in this field.
Main Methods:
- Topical narrative review of published evidence.
- Synthesis of data on associations between climate variables and stroke.
- Discussion of existing literature and research gaps.
Main Results:
- Consistent evidence links increasing ambient temperature and air pollution to stroke incidence and mortality.
- Associations with barometric pressure, wildfires, and dust storms are suggested but require more research.
- Extreme weather events like flooding may indirectly impact stroke through service disruption.
Conclusions:
- Climate change poses a growing threat to the stroke community.
- Elevated attention and further research are warranted to address these impacts.
- Exploring synergies between stroke risk reduction and carbon footprint reduction is crucial.
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