Heart attacks and strokes rising with extreme weather events, research suggests
Rising extreme weather events like heat waves and cold snaps are linked to increased heart attacks and strokes, according to a study of over 8 million people in Eastern Poland from 2011 to 2020. Heat waves cause an immediate spike in cardiovascular events and deaths, while cold waves have a delayed but prolonged effect. Air pollution significantly amplifies these risks, contributing to over 71,000 years of life lost. The study challenges assumptions about which populations are most vulnerable, finding higher risks in women and younger adults.
- ▪Heat waves were associated with a 7.5% increase in major cardiovascular events and a 9.5% rise in deaths on the same day.
- ▪Cold waves led to a 4% to 5.9% increased risk of cardiovascular events in the days following exposure.
- ▪Air pollution accounted for approximately 13% of all cardiovascular deaths in the study period.
- ▪Women had a 5% higher risk of cardiovascular events than men, and those under 65 had a 9% higher risk than those over 65.
- ▪The findings were presented at the European Association of Preventive Cardiology congress and challenge traditional views on cardiovascular risk factors.
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Health Heart attacks and strokes rising with extreme weather events, research suggests Heat waves, cold snaps and air pollution linked to cardiovascular deaths By Khloe Quill Fox News Published April 28, 2026 1:11pm EDT | Updated April 28, 2026 1:15pm EDT Facebook Twitter Threads Flipboard Comments Print Email Add Fox News on Google close Video Drake White says he felt ‘peace’ while interacting with God during near-death experience The country artist suffered a near-fatal stroke in 2019 NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles! Extreme weather is fueling a rise in heart attacks and strokes, with heat waves and cold snaps contributing to the rise, according to new research reported by SWNS.
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