A recent analysis reveals that extreme heat significantly raises the likelihood of cardiac arrest. Investigators examined records from 10 U.S. health systems spanning 2018 to 2024, discovering that ICU admissions for cardiac arrest surge by 45% when temperatures hit 91°F and more than double at 98°F, relative to days hovering around 85°F.
According to the study, cardiac arrest occurs when the heart stops pumping due to a malfunction in its electrical system. About 90% of people who experience a cardiac arrest outside a hospital do not survive, and those who do may face a long recovery.
Heat-Related Cardiac Arrest Risk
Researchers found that the risk of cardiac arrest increases with temperatures greater than 90 degrees. Compared to 85-degree heat, the risk of cardiac arrest is 45% higher at 91 degrees, 65% higher at 93 degrees, and 102% higher at 98 degrees.
Seniors 65 and older had the worst risk, with a 48% higher admission rate for cardiac arrest at 90 degrees compared to 67 degrees. Women were also more likely to suffer cardiac arrest, with a rate 33% higher on days with extreme heat.
Impact on Healthcare Systems
According to researcher Peter Graffy, a postdoctoral fellow in pulmonary and critical care at the University of Chicago, “heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense nationally, causing additional strain on communities and emergency services, as well as on hospitals who must absorb the influx of climate-related illnesses.”
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Graffy noted that ICU beds, equipment, and staff are limited, and sudden increases in critically ill patients can quickly overwhelm hospital resources if they are not prepared. He added that the goal is for hospitals to use temperature forecasts in a data-driven way to adequately prepare ICU beds, staff, resources, and coordination between emergency departments and intensive care units.
Peter Graffy emphasized that hospitals need to be prepared for the increased risk of cardiac arrest during heatwaves. AHA spokesman Dr. Ashish Panchal agreed that “heat warnings should be taken seriously because extreme heat can have consequences that extend from the home all the way through to the ICU.”
Prevention and Preparedness
Dr. Ashish Panchal emphasized the importance of learning CPR and seeking medical care quickly in the event of a cardiac arrest. He noted that about 70% of cardiac arrests that happen outside of a hospital happen at home, and people need to be prepared.
The study’s findings suggest that seniors, women, and people with a heart condition should be careful during extremely hot days, as the risk of cardiac arrest increases with temperature. More information on heat and health can be found on the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.
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