Already this year, we're again seeing large-scale wildfires that are a clear reminder that our patients are facing a new threat to their cardiovascular health: extreme weather events driven by climate change. Air pollution from the wildfires as well as temperature extremes and longer heatwaves, plus the compounding risk of multiple events, have very real consequences on cardiovascular health.

This month's cover story explores some of the current data on wildfire air pollution and heatwaves that is helping to define their risk to heart health, as well as build the evidence base needed to support patient care and find solutions. Educating our patients about this risk and strategies to protect themselves during these events are among the solutions.

"While climate change is a macro issue, cardiovascular specialists have long tackled public health challenges – just as we did with smoking. Ultimately, this is about changing behaviors to protect heart health, which is central to our mission," says Harlan M. Krumholz, MD, SM, FACC, editor-in-chief of JACC, which has committed to leading the charge in environmental cardiovascular health research.

Also in this issue, we hear from Cathie Biga, MSN, MACC, about her year of transformation as she reflects on her year as president of ACC. She transferred the presidential chain over to Christopher M. Kramer, MD, FACC, at Convocation closing out ACC.25. We'll help you to get to know Kramer in a piece in next month's issue.

Peter C. Block, MD, FACC

John Gordon Harold, MD, MACC

There's also lots of exciting Mission-driven work happening in our State Chapters and we provide some of the biggest highlights in our "State of the States" feature. You can also see a snapshot of our membership growth and get quick access to download our latest Annual Report, showcasing the ways the College is delivering on its Vision and Strategic Plan. A special thanks to the many ACC members who gave back to the ACC Foundation Annual Fund in the past year, as well as to the many who attended ACC's 75th Anniversary Gala in Chicago and helped raise even more funds to sustain and grow vital programs shaping the future of the College and the profession. It's been inspiring to see a culture of philanthropic giving take root and grow.

Last but certainly not least, read more about the different ways that ACC programs like ACCSAP, the Annual Scientific Session, ACC Quality Summit and Legislative Conference, can help fellows in training (FITs) enhance their clinical knowledge, develop a sense of professional community and lead in improving care. Plus, catch up on the latest ACC/American Heart Association Guideline on Acute Coronary Syndromes as well as a Scientific Statement on competitive sports participation for people with various cardiovascular conditions. And keep the learning going with JACC in a Flash.

Be sure to set aside some time for reading this jam-packed issue – and pass it along to colleagues! As always, we welcome your thoughts and feedback at CardiologyEditor@acc.org. Don't forget to share your favorite articles on social media using #CardiologyMag.

Clinical Topics: Acute Coronary Syndromes, Prevention, Smoking

Keywords: Cardiology Magazine, ACC Publications, Acute Coronary Syndrome, Climate Change, Public Health, Smoking