The American Heart Association is alerting the public about a potentially deadly combination of wildfire smoke drifting from Canadian fires and summer heat waves affecting parts of the United States. According to the organization, this dual threat poses major risks, especially for individuals with chronic conditions such as heart disease.
Dr. Manesh R. Patel, volunteer president of the American Heart Association and a cardiologist at Duke University School of Medicine, emphasized the seriousness of the situation. “Extreme heat and wildfire smoke each carry major risks, especially for people with chronic health conditions including heart disease. The combination of the two is extremely dangerous,” he said. He urged people to be mindful of the increased risk and take steps to protect themselves and their loved ones.
While respiratory issues are often the primary concern with wildfire smoke, Patel highlighted that the impact on cardiovascular health is significant and far-reaching. “Wildfire smoke contains a lot of pollutants including fine, microscopic particles linked to cardiovascular risk,” he explained. Scientific evidence shows that smoke exposure can worsen existing heart disease and may trigger major cardiovascular events even in those without known health conditions.
A study published in Circulation, the peer-reviewed flagship journal of the American Heart Association, found that the risk of fatal heart attacks nearly doubled during days of extreme heat waves and high levels of fine particle pollution. The risks were even greater for women and older individuals. Additional research has linked smoke exposure to an increased risk of sudden cardiac arrest and a higher volume of emergency room visits for cardiovascular disease-related causes. A study in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that exposure to heavy smoke during wildfires raised the risk of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests up to 70%, with elevated risk across demographics and socioeconomic status.
To reduce risks, Patel recommends staying indoors with doors and windows closed to limit smoke exposure. Using high-efficiency air filters in air conditioning systems or portable air cleaners indoors can reduce indoor particulate matter by as much as 50-60%, according to the American Heart Association’s 2020 scientific statement on air pollution exposure. If a home lacks air conditioning and becomes too warm, seeking alternative shelter is advised. Limiting outdoor activity, especially between noon and 3 p.m. when temperatures peak, and wearing a mask outdoors can also help.
For those who must be outdoors, Patel suggests avoiding exertion, taking breaks in shade or cool indoor spaces, and staying well hydrated with water while avoiding alcohol and caffeinated drinks. Lightweight, light-colored clothing, hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen provide additional protection. Checking on older adults and those with chronic health conditions is crucial, as they are at higher risk. Pets should also be brought indoors.
Recognizing signs of a heart attack or stroke is important. Symptoms include chest discomfort, pain or discomfort in the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach, shortness of breath, cold sweat, nausea, rapid or irregular heartbeat, unusual tiredness, and lightheadedness. Heat stroke symptoms include body temperature above 103°F, hot red skin, rapid strong pulse, confusion, headache, loss of consciousness, or nausea. In either case, calling 911 immediately is critical. Additionally, knowing and performing CPR can more than double the chance of survival in cardiac arrest.
Dr. Patel recommends checking the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s zip code-level air quality tracking map at airnow.gov regularly when wildfire smoke is present, and staying informed about local health department alerts. The American Heart Association provides further resources at www.heart.org.
“Protect yourself, be alert and prepared,” Patel said. “It could be the difference in saving your life or that of someone you love.”
