Health issues

Risk of heart attack higher on Christmas Eve, study claims

Dec 16, 2018

A new study has found the risk of having a heart attack is highest at 10pm on Christmas Eve. Source: Getty

While heart health is something people need to pay attention to all year round, a new study has claimed the risk of a heart attack actually peaks at one of the most celebrated times of the year – Christmas Eve.

The study, published in the BMJ Journal by researchers from Lund University in Sweden, found the risk of heart attack peaks at around 10pm on Christmas Eve for older members of the community, people who are sick and those already at risk of heightened stress. Researchers also found the risk was high during New Year celebrations, Midsummer holidays and even on Monday mornings, but not during the Easter holiday or major sport events.

Researchers investigated whether time factors such as national holidays, the hour of day or day of the week could trigger a heart attack. The exact timing of 283,014 heart attacks in Sweden between 1998 and 2013 were analysed, with researchers finding Christmas was associated with a higher risk of 15 per cent compared to a normal, ‘control’ period.

Specifically, Christmas Eve saw a 37 per cent increased risk of heart attack, peaking at 10pm. The greatest risk was for people over the age of 75 and in those who had existing diabetes and heart disease. Meanwhile, New Year’s Eve had no associated risk and the higher risk was actually on New Year’s Day.

Researchers of the study also explained that experiences of anger, anxiety, sadness, grief and stress can increase the risks and people are more likely to experience these heightened emotions during the holiday period. Additionally, those with a history of diabetes and coronary artery disease were also found to be more vulnerable to these short term triggers.

Because the study was based in Sweden, Starts at 60 spoke to Heart Foundation clinical manager Cia Connell about how relevant the research was to people in Australia.

Thankfully Aussies don’t need to worry too much as the study was conducted in the Northern hemisphere and the climate was one of the factors the authors postulated may have impacted the increased risk of a heart attack, Connell explained.

Still, she acknowledged that social isolation and stress have both been linked to heart disease and that they can increase during the festive season. Rather than the time of year, it’s also important to be aware of the warning signs of a heart attack that can happen at any time.

“It’s important to know the warning signs of a heart attack which include discomfort or pain in the chest, arm, shoulder, neck, jaw, or back,” Connell said. “If you feel these symptoms, stop, tell someone how you feel, and call Triple Zero (000).”

Equally, people should be aware that lifestyle factors can also increase the risk of a heart attack including smoking, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, unhealthy diets, being overweight and being inactive.

There are also things people in Australia can do to protect themselves even further in the lead up to the Christmas season.

“The Heart Foundation strongly recommends having a heart health check if you’re over 45 years old, and over 35 years for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” Connell said. “A heart health check can be done as part of a normal check up with your doctor or health practitioner.

“Your doctor will take blood tests, check your blood pressure and ask you about your lifestyle. They may provide you with lifestyle advice or recommend medications.”