The Influence of Geomagnetic Storms on the Risks of Developing Myocardial Infarction, Acute Coronary Syndrome, and Stroke: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

The aim of this study was to determine the influence of geomagnetic storms (GS) on the risks of developing myocardial infarction (MI), acute coronary syndrome (ACS), and stroke. The systematic review was conducted by searching PubMed database from March 16, 2023, to March 18, 2023, independently by two researchers. Out of 644 articles, a total of 6 studies were selected based on the inclusion/exclusion criteria and included in the systematic review. This systematic review confirmed the effect of GS on the risks of MI/ACS (mean relative risk [RR] 1.3-1.5) and stroke (mean RR 1.25-1.6). At the same time, it is worthnoting the limitations of this systematic review: small number of included studies and their differences in methodology, statistical analysis, and methods for assessing geomagnetic activity. The main mechanism of the negative impact of GS on the functioning of the cardiovascular system and the risk of cardiovascular complications was associated with influence on circadian biological rhythms, heart rate variability, blood pressure, and microcirculation. The authors believe that when planning further research in this area, it is necessary to correctly choose the type of local, regional or planetary geomagnetic index, depending on the goals of the study. It is also necessary to take into account the influence of concomitant somatic pathology, drug therapy, as well as the peculiarities of the individual temporary reaction of the human body to GS.