Effect of coronavirus pandemic and health care system response on non-COVID-19-related mortality, post pandemic myocardial infarction and heart failure rates in Quebec; a collateral damage in this war? [Funder: MI4]

Have heart attacks decreased since social isolation began? Cardiologists Dr. Stéphane Rinfret and Dr. James Brophy have noticed an unexpected decrease in heart attacks since the COVID-19 pandemic started. They are conducting research to determine whether people suffering from cardiac episodes are avoiding hospitals for fear of contracting COVID-19, or if social isolation has indeed reduced the incidence of heart attacks due to reduced physical activity and work-related stress. To determine the answer, the team will contact cardiology units across the country to learn whether there has been a reduction in cardiac surgeries (placement of stents, valve replacements, etc.) Their findings will help cardiologists across the country take steps to ensure their patients are receiving the treatment they need.