Influence of geomagnetic disturbances on myocardial infarctions in women and men from Brazil

Authors: Rezende LFC, De Paula ER, Muella MTAH, Dutra SLG, Rosa RR, Saldiva PHN, Ometto JPHB

Year: 2025 Jul 1

Category: Epidemiology

Journal: Communications Medicine (London)

Institution: Not specified

DOI: 10.1038/s43856-025-00887-7

URL: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12216950/

Abstract

Overview

Understanding the health impacts of space weather, specifically Geomagnetic Disturbances (GMDs) caused by solar activity, remains a significant scientific question. One emerging connection involves the role of space weather in the occurrence of myocardial infarctions (MI).

Methods

Researchers utilized a public health database from São José dos Campos, Brazil, analyzing MI admissions between 1998-2005 (871 men and 469 women). Patients were divided into three age groups: 30 and younger, 31-60, and over 60. The Planetary Index (Kp) was used to indicate geomagnetic fluctuations, categorized as quiet, moderate, or disturbed. Both statistical counting and the unsupervised K-Means clustering method were used, considering age, sex, and geomagnetic conditions.

Findings

  • Geomagnetic disturbances significantly impact MI incidence, especially in women.
  • The relative frequency of MI during disturbed geomagnetic conditions is almost three times higher than during quiet periods.
  • K-Means clustering analysis further confirmed a higher incidence of MIs in women exposed to disturbed geomagnetic conditions.

Conclusion

These results provide new evidence that women, in particular, may be more susceptible to myocardial infarction triggered by geomagnetic disturbances caused by solar activity. This strengthens the link between electromagnetic field changes in the environment and cardiovascular health, with a notable sex-specific effect.

geomagnetic disturbances myocardial infarction space weather cardiovascular health sex differences Brazil public health
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