A group of researchers in Australia has discovered a link between heart attacks and strokes and hot weather. They predict that by 2050, the burden from heart disease and stroke will double if current weather conditions persist, according to a published study.
According to the researchers, about 7.3% of all cases of heart attacks and strokes, or deaths from them, are associated with extreme weather conditions. Modeling studies indicate that this percentage could worsen or improve by 2050, depending on various greenhouse gas emission scenarios presented by the federal climate change committee.
Professor Ping Bi from the University of Adelaide noted: "When the weather is hot, our hearts work harder to cool our body temperature, this additional strain can be dangerous, especially for those who suffer from heart disease and stroke."
