Climate Change Linked to Increase in Stroke Deaths Worldwide

Climate change may be fueling an increase in stroke deaths around the world, a new study finds.

Researchers reviewed 30 years of health and weather data from hundreds of countries

and found drastic changes in temperatures – both up and down – were linked to increases in death and disability due to stroke.

While the majority of strokes were tied to lower than optimal temperatures, researchers also discovered an increasing number due to rising temps.

In 2019, more than 521,000 stroke deaths were linked to nonoptimal temperatures, according to the results.

Lower than optimal temperatures can raise blood pressure, which is a risk factor for stroke

Higher temperatures can cause dehydration, affecting cholesterol levels and resulting in slower blood flow.

One author says dramatic temperature changes have affected human health in recent years

and “may increase the burden of stroke worldwide, especially in older populations and areas with more health care disparities.”

He’s calling for new policies to address the causes of climate change, such as the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation and industrial processes.