Rising Extreme Heat Predicted to Cause Surge in Cardiovascular Deaths

Cardiovascular deaths in the United States due to extreme heat are projected to double or triple by mid-century if greenhouse gas emissions are not reduced, according to a study published in the journal Circulation. The study found that elderly and black adults are most at risk for cardiovascular death from extreme heat. Even with currently proposed reductions in emissions, cardiovascular deaths from extreme heat are projected to be 162% higher by the middle of the century compared to the baseline from 2008-2019. Without reductions in emissions, the increase could be as high as 233%. The study highlights the need for aggressive policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and address health disparities.