Srinagar: Government Medical College Srinagar has issued an advisory in which people have been asked to stay warm, prevent respiratory tract infections and Modify outdoor activities.
“Myocardial Infarction (MI), commonly known as a heart attack, remains one of the leading causes of death and morbidity globally. Alarmingly, every 40 seconds, someone experiences a heart attack. A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology has identified two significant precipitating factors for heart attacks: cold weather and air pollution.” Reads advisory issued by GMC Srinagar, a copy of which lies with JKNS.
Impact of Cold Weather:
“The study highlighted that 10 million people globally experience disability and 500,000 deaths occur annually due to low temperatures and Cold weather has been established as a critical factor triggering both minor and major heart attacks.” It reads further.
“Mechanism: Cold temperatures can cause blood vessels to constrict, increasing blood pressure and the workload on the heart. Additionally, exposure to cold can exacerbate respiratory tract infections, further stressing cardiovascular health.” It reads.
Impact of Air Pollution:
Air pollution has been identified as another key risk factor for heart attacks, contributing to systemic inflammation and impaired cardiovascular function.
In recommendations for High-Risk Groups, advisory states that people at higher risk, including those with hypertension (HTN), diabetes, obesity, a history of smoking, previous heart attacks, or heart failure, are advised to take extra precautions during winter months:
They have been advised to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature using adequate heating.
Wear warm clothing, including hats, gloves, and insulated footwear, when venturing outdoors, Avoid unnecessary exposure to cold environments. Consider influenza vaccinations to reduce the risk of viral infections and Modify Outdoor Activities, Avoid outdoor jogging or other strenuous physical activities during cold weather, as this can increase the risk of cardiac events.
“There is a data evolving which has established a relationship between SNOW SHOVELING & HEART ATTACK. So people are advised to Stay Inside, Stay Warm & Avoid Shovelling & other Strenuous & heavy work.” It reads.
“In light of above it is crucial for everyone, especially high-risk individuals, to adopt preventive measures during winter to safeguard heart health. By staying warm and minimizing exposure to cold and air pollution, we can significantly reduce the risk of heart attacks.” Advisory states further.—(JKNS)
