American Heart Association warns wildfire smoke can raise heart health risks as haze spreads into Wisconsin
Follow usMILWAUKEE — With smoke fromwildfires burning in Canadadrifting into parts of the United States, the American Heart Association is warning that wildfire smoke exposure may increase the risk of. . .
Follow usMILWAUKEE — With smoke fromwildfires burning in Canadadrifting into parts of the United States, the American Heart Association is warning that wildfire smoke exposure may increase the risk of cardiovascular problems and worsen existing heart conditions. “While breathing problems and respiratory health dangers are often considered the biggest health impact from wildfire smoke, it’s important to recognize the impact on cardiovascular health, as well,” Dr. Art Coffey, a Milwaukee American Heart Association board member and chief medical officer with ProHealth Care, said in a statement provided by the organization. Dr. Art CoffeyWildfire smoke contains a mix of pollutants, including fine particulate matter — microscopic particles that can be inhaled — which has been linked to cardiovascular risk, the association said. Coffey said smoke can travel far beyond the areas near active fires. The organization cited research linking wildfire smoke exposure to increased rates of sudden cardiac arrest and more emergency room visits for cardiovascular-related issues. Among the findings referenced in the statement:Research presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2023 found that short-term spikes in fine particulate matter from summertime wildfires were associated with same-day hospitalizations for unstable chest pain in Utah. A study published in theJournal of the American Heart Associationfound exposure to heavy wildfire smoke raised the risk of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests by as much as 70%, with elevated risk among adults ages 35-64 and in communities with lower socioeconomic status. The statement also cited earlier research linking dense smoke exposure to increased emergency room visits for heart attacks, ischemic heart disease, irregular heart rhythms, heart failure, pulmonary embolism and stroke. One study cited in the release found emergency room visits increased 42% for heart attacks and 22% for ischemic heart disease within a day of exposure to dense wildfire smoke, with the increase most notable among adults 65 and older. The American Heart Association said people with underlying cardiovascular disease risk factors may face a greater chance of an acute cardiovascular event when exposed to wildfire smoke. Coffey urged people to watch for signs of a heart attack or stroke and call 911 if symptoms develop. The association’s statement highlighted possible warning signs that can include chest discomfort; discomfort in the arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach; shortness of breath; cold sweats; nausea; rapid or irregular heartbeat; unusual fatigue; or lightheadedness. The statement also noted that knowing CPR can improve survival chances in the event of cardiac arrest. To help residents track local air conditions, Coffey recommended checking AirNow — a zip code-level air quality map provided by the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency and partner agencies — atairnow. gov. Coffey also encouraged residents to pay attention to any local health alerts. The association offered tips for reducing exposure to wildfire smoke, including staying indoors with windows and doors closed, using high-efficiency air filters or portable air cleaners, avoiding strenuous activity, staying hydrated and considering alternate shelter if indoor temperatures become unsafe without air conditioning. The association also noted pets can be affected and should be brought indoors when smoke is present. “While these types of wildfires and the extent of their smoke reach can’t always be predicted, protecting yourself and your family from poor air quality throughout the year is something to consider,” Coffey said. More information and resources are available atheart. org. What else you should knowSUPPORT OUR WORKStories like this hold leaders accountable. We fact-checked GOP lawmakers' claims, analyzed the county budget, and gave you the whole picture — not just the headlines. Support independent journalism for $2/week.