Circadian variation in the frequency of sudden cardiac death.

• DOI: 10.1161/01.cir.75.1.131
• Publication Date: 2011-06-17T20:29:13Z
• Authors: J E Muller; P L Ludmer; S N Willich; G H Tofler; G Aylmer; I Klangos; P H Stone
• Keywords: Sudden Death

To determine whether sudden cardiac death exhibits a circadian rhythm similar to that recently demonstrated for nonfatal myocardial infarction, we analyzed the time of day as indicated by certificates 2203 individuals dying out hospital in Massachusetts 1983. The data reveal prominent variation death, with low incidence during night and an increased from 7 11 A.M. pattern is remarkably reported infarction episodes ischemia. finding frequency morning compatible hypotheses results ischemia or primary arrhythmic event. Further study physiologic changes occurring may provide new information supporting refuting these hypotheses, thereby leading understanding possible prevention death.