UTCI as a bio-meteorological tool in the assessment of cold-induced stress as a risk factor for hypertension.

摘要: BACKGROUND Hypertension (HT) affects >1/3 of adult populations in developed countries. Several studies reported periodic changes blood pressure (BP) values depending on atmospheric conditions, and analyzed the impact outdoor temperature, pressure, relative humidity other meteorological parameters. The Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI) is a bio-meteorological index derived from an analysis human thermal balance that comprehensively describes factors, including both cold stress heat their physiological consequences. AIM Our aim was to assess relationship between UTCI number consultations for HT within framework healthcare system. METHODS This work presents retrospective epidemiological study data collected Olsztyn (Poland), characterized by climate type. analytical material comprised 5578 emergency departments (EDs) due HT. RESULTS Seasonal differences numbers with significant increase winter months were noticed, especially as regards women. Under risk (RR) related 2-fold higher women compared thermoneutral conditions (p < 0.001). For men these also statistically significant, though at much smaller level (p = 0.03). increased RR found among younger older contrary perimenopausal age. CONCLUSIONS Cold should be considered factor patients, particularly women, diagnosed cardiovascular diseases. adequate tool assessment relationships occurrence cardiac symptoms.