Seasonal Patterns of Heart Attacks in Melbourne
Author Information
Author(s): Margaret E Loughnan, Neville Nicholls, Nigel J Tapper
Primary Institution: Monash University
Hypothesis
There are distinct seasonal patterns of cardiac mortality and morbidity in south-eastern Australia, displaying local differences.
Conclusion
There are two distinct seasons with increased admissions during the colder part of the year, with males showing a stronger seasonal pattern than females.
Supporting Evidence
- There were 33,165 Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI) admissions over 2186 consecutive days.
- The peak month for AMI admissions was July, with a 22.7% increase over the base month of December.
- Male admissions showed a stronger seasonal pattern than female admissions.
- Spatial analysis indicated significant clustering of AMI admissions during both maximal and minimal seasons.
Takeaway
In Melbourne, more people go to the hospital for heart attacks in the colder months, especially men, and this pattern changes depending on where you live.
Methodology
The study analyzed daily hospital admissions for acute myocardial infarction over a six-year period, focusing on age, gender, and spatial patterns.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from changes in diagnostic technology affecting admission rates.
Limitations
The study only includes hospital admissions and does not account for out-of-hospital deaths or AMI outcomes post-hospitalization.
Participant Demographics
The study included all AMI admissions to 37 hospitals in Melbourne, focusing on individuals aged 35 years and older.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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