More people die from heart attacks on Christmas than any other day of the year, according to a study published in the American Heart Association's medical journal. The research also found Dec. 26 has the second-highest deadly cardiac events while Jan. 1 has the third.
The American Heart Association said immediate medical attention can help improve the outcome of a heart attack, while practicing healthy habits can reduce the risk.
Dr. Mitchell Elkind, the association's chief clinical science officer, said the exact reasoning for the high rate is not clear, but the stress of the holidays coupled with indulgent eating and alcohol consumption are contributing factors.
"Routines are disrupted; we may tend to eat and drink more and exercise and relax less. We’re getting too little sleep and experiencing too much stress. We also may not be listening to our bodies or paying attention to warning signs, thinking a trip to the doctor can wait until after the new year," Elkind said in a statement from the organization.
Cold weather can also be a factor. Blood vessels tighten in lower temperatures, which makes it more difficult for the heart to pump blood and receive oxygen. However, similar studies conducted in the warmer climates of Los Angeles County and New Zealand also found higher rates of deadly heart attacks during the winter months.
The Heart Association said recognizing the symptoms of a heart attack and getting someone immediate medical care can also improve outcomes. The organization also encouraged people to be familiar with CPR in case of an emergency.
