Excess mortality at Christmas due to cardiovascular disease in the HUNT study prospective population-based cohort in Norway

Abstract Background Although it is known that winter inclusive of the Christmas holiday period associated with an increased risk dying compared to other times year, very few studies have specifically examined this phenomenon within a population cohort subject baseline profiling and prospective follow-up. In such cohort, we sought determine specific characteristics mortality occuring during holidays. Methods Baseline outcome data were derived from population-based longitudinal follow-up in Central Norway - Trøndelag Health (HUNT) Study. From 1984 1986 , 88% target comprising 39,273 men 40,353 women aged 48 ± 18 50 years, respectively, profiled. We long-term pattern number excess (all-cause cause-specific) deaths occurred overall and, more specifically, Results During 33.5 (IQR 17.1–34.4) years follow-up, 19,879 (50.7%) 19,316 (49.3%) died at age-adjusted rate 5.3 4.6 per 1000/annum, respectively. Overall, 1540 (95% CI 43–45 deaths/season) all-cause (December February) versus summer (June August), 735 20–22 season) these cardiovascular-related. December 25th–27th was deadliest 3-day year; being 138 96–147) 102 72–132) cardiovascular-related deaths, Accordingly, 1st–21st (equivalent conditions), incidence ratio 1.22 1.16–1.27) 1.17 1.11–1.22) women, next 21 days (Christmas/New Year holidays). All observed differences highly significant ( P < 0.001). A less pronounced due respiratory illnesses (but not cancer) also observed. Conclusion Beyond broader seasonally-linked characterised by time year coincides time, frequency changes markedly; contrasting stable cancer-related mortality. Pending confirmation populations climates, further research if are preventable warranted.