As Canadian wildfire smoke drifts into parts of the U.S. and summer temperatures soar, the American Heart Association is raising alarm about the compounded dangers to heart health. The combination of extreme heat and air pollution from wildfire smoke creates a potentially deadly situation, particularly for individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions, but also for those without known health issues, according to the organization.
Dr. Manesh R. Patel, volunteer president of the American Heart Association and chief of cardiology at Duke University School of Medicine, emphasized the severity. “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. “We want people to be mindful of the increased risk and take steps to protect themselves and their loved ones.”
While respiratory problems are often the primary concern with wildfire smoke, the impact on cardiovascular health can be equally serious. Wildfire smoke contains fine particulate matter (PM2.5) that can enter the bloodstream and trigger cardiovascular events. A study published in Circulation, the American Heart Association’s flagship journal, found that the risk of fatal heart attacks nearly doubled during days with extreme heat and high levels of fine particle pollution, with even greater risks for women and older adults.
Additional research published in the Journal of the American Heart Association linked heavy wildfire smoke exposure to a 70% increased risk of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests. The study noted elevated risks across genders, adults aged 35-64, and communities with lower socioeconomic status. Previous findings from the same group also associated wildfire smoke with increased emergency room visits for ischemic heart disease, arrhythmias, heart failure, pulmonary embolism, and stroke.
To mitigate risks, Dr. Patel recommends staying indoors with doors and windows closed, using high-efficiency air filters, and limiting outdoor activity, especially between noon and 3 p.m. when temperatures peak. If outdoors, wearing a mask, avoiding exertion, staying hydrated with water (avoiding alcohol and caffeine), and wearing lightweight, light-colored clothing are advised. Checking on older adults and those with chronic conditions is crucial, as they face higher risks.
Recognizing signs of a heart attack—such as chest discomfort, pain in the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach, shortness of breath, cold sweat, nausea, or lightheadedness—and calling 911 immediately can save lives. Heat stroke symptoms include a body temperature above 103°F, hot red skin, rapid pulse, confusion, or loss of consciousness. The American Heart Association also encourages learning CPR, which can double survival chances during cardiac arrest.
Residents can monitor local air quality at airnow.gov and stay informed through local health department alerts. For more resources, visit the American Heart Association’s website at heart.org.
