Summary
A study by the National Institute for Space Research (INPE) found that solar storms could be linked to an increase in heart attacks, especially among women. The research analyzed heart attack cases in Brazil from 1998 to 2005 and suggested women might be more affected by geomagnetic disturbances. The study is not conclusive and suggests further research is needed to understand this potential health risk.
Key Facts
- Solar storms are energy bursts from the Sun that can disturb Earth's magnetic field.
- Researchers studied 1,340 heart attack cases in São José dos Campos, Brazil, from 1998 to 2005.
- The study found heart attacks in women increased during days with disturbed geomagnetic conditions.
- For women aged 31-60, the heart attack frequency was up to three times higher during such conditions.
- Geomagnetic disturbances occur when solar wind interferes with Earth's magnetic field, affecting technology and possibly human health.
- The study is the first of its kind conducted in Brazil.
- The findings suggest solar storms might affect women more than men, but more research is needed.
- The Sun has roughly 11-year activity cycles, with solar maximum expected in late 2024 to early 2025.
