How later COVID-19 surges impacted heart attack and stroke numbers
During the earliest stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of patients presenting with acute cardiovascular conditions dropped significantly. According to a new analysis published in JAMA, however, more recent surges in COVID cases have not led to the same issues.
The authors examined data from Kaiser Permanente Northern California, focusing on weekly rates of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) hospitalizations and stroke alerts from Jan. 21, 2020, to Jan. 18, 2021.
Overall, the group found “no significant declines in AMI hospitalization or stroke alerts ... during the largest and most recent surge during October 2020 to January 2021.” While a “modest decline” was seen in stroke alerts during a midsummer surge, the numbers quickly went back to normal.
“These patterns may reflect changing patient attitudes during the COVID-19 pandemic or the success of health system and public health campaigns to reassure patients about the safety of seeking emergency care when needed,” wrote lead author Matthew D. Solomon, MD, PhD, a cardiologist at Kaiser Permanente Northern California, and colleagues.
Read the full JAMA research letter here.
Michael has more than 18 years of experience as a professional writer and editor. He has written at length about cardiology, radiology, artificial intelligence and other key healthcare topics.