Complex effects of atmospheric parameters on acute cardiovascular diseases and major cardiovascular risk factors: data from the Cardiometeorology(SM) study

Several studies have examined the cardiovascular effects of atmospheric parameters as separate factors; however, few have investigated atmospheric parameters’ joint effects. We aim to explore the joint effects of atmospheric parameters on acute cardiovascular diseases (ACVDs) and on major cardiovascular risk factors (CRFs). We correlated all ACVD admissions with major CRFs and local atmospheric conditions during a 5-year study period. A seasonal variation was detected in a higher incidence rate during cold atmospheric conditions. There were significant incidence relative ratios, including: 1.140 (95% CI [1.020, 1.283]) for daily temperature change (≥5 °C); 0.991 (95% CI [0.988, 0.994]) for average daily temperature; and 1.290 (95% CI [1.090, 1.599]) for the interaction of daily temperature change (≥5 °C) with humidity change (≥40%). We observed a significant association between the atmospheric parameters’ joint effects and hyperlipidaemia, diabetes, and previous ACVDs. Patients with diabetes had the highest significant incidence relative ratio at 2.429 (95% CI [1.088, 5.424]) for humidity-temperature interactions. Thus, the atmospheric parameters’ joint effects play an important role as minor CRFs. These unfavourable atmospheric situations are predicted to increase the number of ACVDs mainly. Our study may help to organize prevention strategies more effectively and to reduce cardiovascular risks.