Study Examines Heart Attack Risks on Holidays and Major Events

Overview of Ischaemic Heart Disease

Ischaemic heart disease, a primary contributor to global mortality rates, can lead to heart attacks. While multiple factors can cause this condition, prior studies indicate that external influences, such as sports events, may elevate the risk of heart attacks. These medical emergencies occur when plaques within the coronary artery rupture, resulting in a blockage.

Research Aims and Methodology

A recent study published in the BMJ by Mohammad and colleagues aimed to validate whether national holidays are indeed triggers for heart attacks. The researchers sought to identify the timing and severity of symptoms on significant dates. They analyzed data from 283,014 heart attack cases recorded in a Swedish coronary care unit registry over 16 years, spanning from 1998 to 2013. The study reviewed hospital admission records during various holidays, including Christmas, New Year’s Day, Easter, Midsummer, and prominent sporting events like the Olympic Games.

Findings on Heart Attack Incidence

The study revealed a 37% increased likelihood of experiencing a heart attack on Christmas Eve, with the peak occurrence around 10 p.m. Researchers theorized that this heightened risk could be attributed to emotional stress associated with the holidays, such as feelings of anger or grief. Additionally, individuals over 75 years old with diabetes or cardiovascular conditions were found to be particularly vulnerable. On New Year’s Day, there was a 20% greater likelihood of heart attacks, potentially linked to the effects of alcohol consumption and overeating.

Additional Observations

Other explanations for the rise in heart attack incidents include family members seeking medical assistance for older relatives when their health deteriorates. However, the researchers did not find temporal evidence to support this theory. Interestingly, the study showed no increased risk for heart attacks on Easter or during major sporting events.

Limitations and Future Research

As this study is observational, it does not establish definitive cause-and-effect relationships. Consequently, further research is necessary to derive actionable insights from these findings. The researchers emphasize the need to comprehend the “factors, activities, and emotions that precede these heart attacks” in order to develop strategies aimed at reducing their occurrence.

Author and Reference

Written by Helen Marzec
Reference: Mohammad, M. A., Karlsson, S., Haddad, J., Cederberg, B., Jernberg, T., Lindahl, B., … & Erlinge, D. (2018). Christmas, national holidays, sport events, and time factors as triggers of acute myocardial infarction: SWEDEHEART observational study 1998-2013. BMJ, 363, k4811