PERFORATED PEPTIC ULCER ‐ A SEASONAL DISEASE?

Abstract
All hospital admissions for perforated peptic ulcer in the state of Western Australia from 1971-1981 inclusive were used to study the seasonal fluctuation, prevalence and mortality. This represented 1187 adminissions. A significant seasonal peak was found during Nov., Dec. and Jan. There was a marked reduction in admissions in the last 3 yr, i.e., 1979-1981, representing a 35% drop from previous levels. The overall mortality was 6.6%, but was 1.8% in patients < 65 yr, and 17.3% in patients .gtoreq. 65 yr.