study Links Extreme Heat to Increased Mortality Among Veterans With Cardiometabolic Disease
WASHINGTON, D.C. – A new study published in JAMA Network Open reveals a critically important correlation between exposure to extreme heat and increased mortality risk among veterans with cardiometabolic disease. Researchers found that each additional extreme heat day per month was associated with a measurable rise in deaths within this vulnerable population.
The findings, released November 25, 2025, underscore the growing threat of climate change to public health, particularly for individuals with pre-existing conditions. Veterans with cardiometabolic disease - encompassing conditions like heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and hypertension – are especially susceptible to the adverse effects of extreme heat due to physiological vulnerabilities and potential limitations in their ability to regulate body temperature. As extreme heat events become more frequent and intense, the study highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions to protect this at-risk group and mitigate the strain on healthcare systems.
The research team, led by Emily M. Shannon, analyzed data from a cohort of veterans and identified a clear link between exposure to extreme heat and increased mortality. The study points to factors such as medical comorbidities, limited access to care, and environmental exposures as contributing to the disproportionate impact on vulnerable communities.
“These findings emphasize the critical importance of proactive measures to address the health risks associated with extreme heat,” said Shannon in the published report. “Specifically, we need to focus on supporting veterans with cardiometabolic disease through improved access to cooling centers, enhanced healthcare services, and targeted public health campaigns.”
The study, published in the November 2025 issue of JAMA Network open, utilized data collected through November 2024. Further research is planned to investigate the effectiveness of various mitigation strategies and to refine risk prediction models for extreme heat-related mortality.
References
- Shannon EM, Chen L, Yuan A, et al. Extreme heat, social factors, and mortality among California veterans with cardiometabolic disease.JAMA Netw Open. 2025;8;(11):e2545524. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.45524
- Melillo G.Extreme heat waves linked with higher US mortality, particularly among elderly, Black individuals. AJMC. May 19, 2022. Accessed November 25, 2025. https://www.ajmc.com/view/extreme-heat-waves-linked-with-higher-us-mortality-particularly-among-elderly-black-individuals
