The American Heart Association is urging people to be aware of the risk of a deadly “holiday heart attack” and to reduce their risk.
DALLAS, Dec. 13, 2023 — Winter break can be deadly as research shows more people die from heart attacks during the last week of December than at any other time of the year There is sex. Recognizing the signs of a heart attack and taking steps to reduce your risk is important year-round, but according to the American Heart Association, the world’s leading voluntary organization focused on heart and brain health for everyone. says it will be especially important in the coming years. several weeks.
Many scientific studies have confirmed this deadly phenomenon.
- Research published in CirculationThe American Heart Association’s flagship journal reported that in the United States, more people die from heart disease on December 25th than on any other day of the year, followed by December 26th and January 1st.
- A study in the British Medical Journal, which looked at more than 16 years of data on heart attacks in people in Sweden, found that heart attacks overall increased by 15% during the winter holidays. Of particular note, heart attacks increased by 37% on December 24th (Christmas Eve), peaking at 10pm, and were more common in people over 75 and those with a history of diabetes or cardiovascular disease. That’s what happened.
- Research presented at the British Cardiovascular Society Conference in June confirmed previous research showing that serious heart attacks occur more frequently on Mondays than on other days of the week. This year his Monday will be December 25th (Christmas Day).
“No one wants to think about tragedy during this joyous time of gathering with family and friends. But these surprising facts are quite sobering. What exactly is causing the increase in heart attacks during this holiday? We don’t know, but it’s possible,” said Johanna Contreras, MD, MS, FAHA, a clinical volunteer with the American Heart Association and a cardiologist at the Mount Sinai Hospital System in New York City. ”
One of the most significant factors may be that people ignore important warning signs of heart attack and stroke, Contreras said.
“You may not want to spend your holidays in a doctor’s office or hospital, but getting a medical checkup and immediate treatment for any problems is a gift you can give yourself and your loved ones for every upcoming celebration.” “It’s one of the best gifts I’ve ever received,” she said.
Giving the gift of life may also be important if you see someone experiencing symptoms of a heart attack or stroke. While you’re shopping at the mall, enjoying the sights and sounds of the holiday season, or spending time at a family gathering, you might witness someone having a heart attack and going into cardiac arrest. yeah. In these situations, immediately starting CPR or calling 911 can be the difference between life and death.
“Hands-only CPR is something that almost anyone can learn and perform. Statistics show that most cardiac arrests occur outside of a hospital setting, and often at home. “We recommend that at least one person in each family learn CPR,” Contreras said. “The American Heart Association has published short instructional videos at Heart.org/HandsOnlyCPR. Watching videos and learning Hands-Only CPR is a life-saving, life-changing activity families can do together for the holidays. It could be an activity.”
Contreras points out that family gatherings are also a good time to talk about your family’s health history.
“Many of the health factors that influence heart disease and stroke are genetic,” she says. “If you have a parent, sibling, or grandparent who has had a heart attack or stroke, you may also be at increased risk. But the good news is that you can reduce your risk by taking precautions.” Knowing the history is an important first step.”
Here are some heart-healthy tips for the upcoming holiday season.
- Know the symptoms and take measures. Heart attack signs and stroke symptoms are different for men and women, so it’s important to recognize them early and call 9-1-1 for help. The sooner treatment begins, the better the chance of survival and the prevention of heart damage.
- Let’s celebrate in moderation Eating healthy during the holidays doesn’t have to mean depriving yourself. There are still ways to eat wisely. Look for small healthy changes and swaps to help you feel your best while eating and drinking in moderation. Also, don’t forget to watch your salt intake.
- Plan for peace on earth and goodwill towards yourself. Make time to take care of yourself during your busy holidays. Reduce stress from other stressors prevalent during this time, such as family interactions, tight finances, busy schedules, and travel.
- Keep moving: The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week, but this number typically decreases during the hustle and bustle of the holidays. Think creatively about ways to stay active, even if that means going for a family walk or another fun activity you can do with your loved ones.
- Please continue taking your medicine. During busy holidays, you may forget to take your medication, forget it while you’re out, or it may not be refilled in a timely manner. The American Heart Association has a medication chart to help you manage your blood pressure, so be sure to keep an eye on your blood pressure readings.
“We know there are ways to reduce your risk of a fatal heart attack. So we want to encourage everyone to stop in between the holiday hustle and bustle and learn these important, potentially life-saving… We encourage you to be mindful of these procedures,” Contreras said.
The American Heart Association has more information on how to live a heart-healthy lifestyle during the holidays and throughout the year at heart.org.
Additional resources:
The study, published in the scientific journal of the American Heart Association, is peer-reviewed. The statements and conclusions in each manuscript are solely the opinions of the study authors and do not necessarily reflect the policy or position of the Society. The Association makes no representations or warranties regarding its accuracy or reliability. The association is primarily funded by individuals. Foundations and corporations (including pharmaceuticals, device manufacturers, and other companies) also make contributions, which help fund specific programs and events for the association. The Society has strict policies in place to ensure that these relationships do not influence scientific content. Revenues from pharmaceutical companies, biotech companies, device manufacturers, health insurance companies, and overall financial information for the association can be found here.
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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association works tirelessly to help the world live longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with thousands of organizations and the power of millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for public health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has served as a leading source of health information for nearly a century. heart.org, Facebook, X Or call 1-800-AHA-USA1.
Media inquiries:
Cathy Lewis: cathy.lewis@heart.org
General inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
