Heart Attacks Increase Around The Holidays

WASHINGTON (AP) -- The holiday season brings not only revelry but also more heart attacks.<br/><br/>December and January are the deadliest months for heart disease. And many of the characteristics of the

Monday, December 3rd 2007, 9:27 pm

By: News On 6

WASHINGTON (AP) -- The holiday season brings not only revelry but also more heart attacks.

December and January are the deadliest months for heart disease. And many of the characteristics of the season such as rich meals, more
alcohol and extra stress are culprits.

But doctors say what makes the Christmas coronary more deadly is a double dose of denial. Research shows people are more reluctant to run to the emergency room if they're away from home or if it means disrupting a holiday gathering.

But the nation's hospitals are trying to speed care to heart attack sufferers. The aim is to reopen blocked arteries with angioplasties or other procedures within 90 minutes of arrival.

Only about a third of people suffering major heart attacks get such fast care now.