Heat, air pollution, and heart and lung disease

This publication explores how extreme heat and heat stress, in combination with air pollution (including from wildfires), may exacerbate existing health conditions and lead to death and disease. Rising temperatures and air pollution are two of the most concerning impacts of climate change given the significant effects on heart and lung health.

Key findings from the publication include: 

• The convergence of more frequent and in tense heatwaves, often along with air pollution episodes, intensifies the susceptibility to heart and lung disease in Europe;
• Air pollution, especially fine particulate matter (PM), can modify heat-related health effects and intensify cardiovascular and respiratory ailments and premature death;
• Wildfires are, increasingly, an important source of PM2.5 pollution in Europe, particularly in Eastern Europe.