As cold fronts arrive, day–night temperature differences continue to widen. Low temperatures and damp weather can cause blood vessels to constrict and blood pressure to rise, increasing the risk of acute myocardial infarction and stroke. Taiwan's National Health Promotion Administration (NHPA) reminds people with chronic conditions, cardiovascular disease patients, and older adults to pay special attention to warmth and daily health management during winter.
According to the Ministry of Health and Welfare's 2024 statistics, heart disease and cerebrovascular disease rank second and fourth among the leading causes of death in Taiwan, claiming approximately 36,000 lives annually. In response to cold weather risks, the NHPA has outlined four key heart- and brain-protection measures to reduce cardiovascular events.
The recommendations include avoiding outdoor activities during early mornings and evenings when temperatures are lowest, dressing appropriately to keep the head, neck, and extremities warm, maintaining adequate hydration with warm water, and avoiding sugary, caffeinated, or alcoholic drinks. The NHPA also urges people to remain alert to warning signs of heart attack and stroke, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or difficulty smiling, raising arms, or speaking, and to seek medical care immediately if symptoms occur.