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Sudden cardiac death after manual or automated snow removal

Pertha S Chowdhury1, Barry A Franklin, Judith A Boura

  • 1Division of Cardiology, William Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak 48073, USA.

The American Journal of Cardiology
|October 1, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Heavy snowstorms increase the risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD) from atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Snow removal activities were linked to the largest number of exertion-related deaths following major snowfalls reported to date.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Public Health
  • Environmental Medicine

Background:

  • Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is a significant public health concern.
  • Major snowstorms present unique environmental stressors.
  • The link between snow removal exertion and SCD requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the circumstances surrounding sudden cardiac death (SCD) during major snowstorms.
  • To identify exertion-related risks associated with snow removal activities.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of medical examiner records from 3 counties.
  • Analysis of cases occurring before, during, and after two heavy snowfalls.
  • Focus on SCD attributed to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.

Main Results:

  • Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease was the cause of SCD in 271 individuals.
  • Thirty-six individuals (33 men, 3 women) engaged in snow removal experienced SCD.
  • This represents the largest reported number of exertion-related deaths following heavy snowfalls.

Conclusions:

  • Snow removal during heavy snowfalls is associated with a significant risk of SCD.
  • Exertion from snow removal poses a considerable threat to individuals with underlying cardiovascular disease.
  • Public health awareness regarding cardiac risks during snowstorms is crucial.

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