HHS HealthBeat (February 10, 2009)

Winter Can Kill

From the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, I’m Ira Dreyfuss with HHS HealthBeat.

It’s fun to be outside in the winter.  But many people end up in the hospital for cold-related health problems. 

Researchers at HHS’ Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, or AHRQ, found that more than 6,000 people are hospitalized and more than 800 die each year due to frigid temperatures.  Cold causes hypothermia, which can lead to loss of physical and mental abilities, frostbite, respiratory failure, and pneumonia.

AHRQ Director Dr. Carolyn Clancy advises people to take notice of the temperature – and their bodies – when they spend time outdoors.

[Dr. Carolyn Clancy speaks] “You need to pay attention to the signs of cold-related health problems.  If your hands and feet are numb or you're having trouble breathing and feel very sleepy, get out of the cold right away and warm up before your symptoms get worse.”

Learn more at hhs.gov.

HHS HealthBeat is a production of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. I’m Ira Dreyfuss.

Last revised: February, 11 2009