Effect of Intense Heat and Cold Conditions on Arterial Hypertension in Older Adults. Management Measures

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in Cuba, with a particular impact on older adults. Population aging—it is estimated that by 2030 more than 30% of Cubans will be over 60 years old—increases vulnerability to climate extremes. There are insufficient studies in Cuba relating warm and cold bioclimatic extremes to decompensated arterial hypertension in this age group.

The research is conducted in Havana with the aim of determining the effects of thermal sensations and intense heat and cold conditions on morbidity and mortality from arterial hypertension in older adults. The Effective Temperature (TE) and Equivalent Effective Temperature (TEE) indices, as well as the Intense Heat Condition (CCI) and Intense Cold Condition (CFI) indicators, are employed using daily morbidity and mortality data (2001-2017) from MINSAP and climatic data from the Casablanca and Santiago de las Vegas weather stations of INSMET.

Preliminary results show significant spatial variability between coastal and inland areas, with differences of up to 3°C in thermal sensations. Intense Cold Conditions are concentrated from November to April, coinciding with the highest number of hospital admissions for decompensated hypertension. Older adults over 75 years old show a 15% increase in hypertensive crises during days with Intense Cold Conditions.

A management plan is proposed that includes: a biometeorological early warning system, differentiated medical protocols, educational campaigns, and adaptation of health services during high-risk periods. The implementation of these measures will contribute to reducing risks and costs, promoting healthy aging in the context of climate change.