Heart attacks cause concern due to their unpredictable nature. They can occur without any warning signs and sometimes can affect even those who seem perfectly healthy. While heart attacks have long been associated with older adults, in recent years, there has been a rise in cases among younger people, adding to growing concerns. Though age remains a key risk factor, lifestyle habits, underlying medical conditions, and family history also play a major role in increasing one’s risk. What’s more interesting is that research has found people are more likely to have heart attacks on a Monday. This worrying pattern got us thinking and led us to consult an expert for more insights.
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Are Heart Attacks More Likely To Happen On Mondays?
According to a 2023 research presented at the British Cardiovascular Society (BCS) conference in Manchester, serious heart attacks, particularly ST-segment Elevation Myocardial Infarctions (STEMIs), are more likely to occur on Mondays.
A heart attack typically occurs when blood flow to the heart muscle is blocked, which can be caused by a buildup of plaque in the arteries, also called atherosclerosis.
Researchers found that the number of heart attacks occurring on Mondays was 13% higher than on other days, providing strong evidence that heart attacks are more frequent at the beginning of the week.
Factors That Contribute To Heart Attacks On A Monday
Dr Prateek Chaudhary, Senior Consultant Interventional Cardiologist, Asian Institute of Medical Sciences, Faridabad, shared that there is no single reason behind this pattern of heart attacks occurring on Mondays. "Stress, work-related pressure, and job demands certainly play a role. Moreover, returning from a relaxed weekend to the pressures of work can increase the likelihood of heart attacks," he said.
However, studies have also shown that non-workers and retirees experience higher heart attack rates on Mondays. This indicates that the phenomenon is not solely work-related.
The stress hormone cortisol, which peaks in the morning, may contribute to the increase in heart attacks on Mondays. The body’s natural circadian rhythm causes cortisol levels to rise in the morning, and when combined with job stress or sudden physical and mental exertion after a sedentary weekend, it may lead to heart attacks.
Other contributing factors include overeating, excessive alcohol consumption, poor sleep due to late-night parties, and skipping medications over the weekend, all of which can increase heart vulnerability on Mondays.
Additionally, some people ignore early symptoms during the weekend, delaying medical attention until Monday. The unavailability of doctors on weekends may also result in postponed visits, increasing the risk of severe heart events at the start of the week. While heart attacks can happen on any day, research consistently shows a modest increase of about 10-20% on Mondays.
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Who Is Most At Risk Of A Heart Attack?
People with a high risk of heart attack include:
- Those with diabetes, hypertension, and obesity
- Smokers
- People with a sedentary lifestyle
- Individuals with a strong family history of heart disease
- Individuals in high-stress professions
- People with mental health conditions like anxiety and depression
- Postmenopausal women
Conclusion
Heart attacks can occur at any time, with or without warning signs. However, research suggests that people are more prone to experience a heart attack on a Monday. While some people may be more susceptible to heart conditions than others, there are ways to reduce the risk. Dr Chaudhary recommended getting regular sleep, taking prescribed medications on time, and avoiding excessive binge eating, alcohol consumption, and late-night parties. Staying active over the weekend through light exercise, meditation, or yoga is beneficial.
Monitoring health parameters like blood pressure and blood sugar levels, staying hydrated, and avoiding excessive intake of sweets and processed foods can further lower the risk. These steps not only help prevent “Monday blues” but also reduce the likelihood of heart attacks on any day of the week.