BOSTON (WHN) – Cardiac deaths show a distinct seasonal surge, with research indicating that more individuals succumb to heart attacks during the final week of December than at any other point in the year. The American Heart Association is reminding the public that while vigilance for heart attack symptoms and risk reduction are crucial year-round, these efforts are particularly vital in the coming weeks.
Multiple scientific studies have documented this concerning trend.
A study published in Circulation, the American Heart Association’s primary journal, reported that December 25th registers the highest number of cardiac deaths in the United States annually. This peak is followed closely by December 26th and January 1st, according to the manuscript.
Further evidence comes from a British Medical Journal analysis. This review, spanning over 16 years of Swedish data on heart attacks, identified a 15% overall increase in cardiac events during the winter holiday period. Notably, heart attacks spiked by 37% on December 24th, Christmas Eve, with these events frequently occurring around 10 p.m. The risk was found to be higher among individuals over 75 years old and those with pre-existing diabetes or a history of cardiovascular disease.
“No one wants to think of tragedy during this joyous time of year as we gather with family and friends. However, these startling facts are very sobering,” stated Cristine Adams, M.D. Dr. Adams, who serves as chief wellness officer of Kaleida Health and is an emergency physician at Buffalo General Medical Center and the VA Hospital of WNY, also holds positions as wellness director at UB|MD Emergency Medicine and the American Heart Association’s Buffalo CycleNation chair. “We don’t know exactly what triggers this increase in heart attacks during the holidays. It’s likely a combination of factors,” she added.
Dr. Adams pointed to potential contributing factors. “Winter weather has been noted to increase heart attack risk due to restricted blood flow when arteries may be constricted in cold temperatures,” she explained. “We also know the holidays bring a lot of added stress to many people. There are lots of parties and family gatherings where many tend to overindulge in rich foods and drink.”
One of the most critical elements, according to Dr. Adams, may be the tendency for individuals to dismiss or ignore warning signs of a heart attack or stroke.
“While you may not want to spend the holidays in a doctor’s office or hospital, getting checked out and receiving prompt treatment if there is a problem is one of the best gifts you can give yourself and your loved ones for all the celebrations to come,” she urged.
The concept of giving the gift of life can also extend to recognizing and responding to cardiac emergencies in others. Whether at a shopping mall, enjoying seasonal festivities, or attending a family gathering, witnessing someone experience a heart attack or go into cardiac arrest necessitates immediate action. Initiating cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and calling 9-1-1 promptly can be the decisive factor between life and death in such critical situations.