From summer heat to winter cold: ICU admissions and survival patterns across seasons

Aims: Seasonal variations may influence ICU admissions, survival, and mortality rates due to climate-related illnesses, trauma, and infectious diseases. Understanding these patterns is crucial for optimizing healthcare resources and improving patient outcomes. This study investigates the impact of seasonal changes on ICU admissions, survival rates, and mortality patterns. Additionally, it evaluates how these seasonal effects interact with different age groups. Methods: This retrospective observational study analyzed 18,046 ICU admissions at Bakırköy Dr. Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital from 2008 to 2024. Patients were categorized by season (Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter) based on admission dates. Age groups were also assessed to determine variations in admission patterns and outcomes. Descriptive statistics, ANOVA, and chi-square tests were used for analysis. Results: Seasonal fluctuations in ICU admissions were observed but were not statistically significant (p=0.42). However, specific age groups displayed notable seasonal trends. Younger patients (0-20 and 21-40) had increased ICU admissions in summer due to trauma and accidents, while older patients (61-80 and 81+) were more frequently admitted in winter, likely due to respiratory and cardiovascular complications. Mortality rates were highest in winter, particularly among elderly patients (p=0.048). Survival rates were slightly higher in autumn, but no significant seasonal difference was found overall (p=0.074). Conclusion: While total ICU admissions did not show a strong seasonal influence, age-specific trends were evident. Increased trauma-related ICU admissions in summer and higher elderly mortality rates in winter highlight the need for targeted healthcare strategies, such as preventive trauma programs in summer and enhanced respiratory care in winter. Future studies should consider broader geographical comparisons to refine these findings.