Hypothermia Surveillance

Hypothermia is defined as a drop in body temperature to less than 94.1° F as a result of exposure to cold weather or a cold natural environment.  In Missouri, 416 people have died from the cold during the winter months since 1979 when hypothermia data collection was first begun by the former Missouri Division of Health.
Hypothermia Deaths, 1979-2006

Senior citizens are more likely to be victims of cold-related illness resulting in death. Too often, handicapped or older individuals fall outside and are unable to reach shelter or help. During the winter weather seasons 1989-2006, 130 (49.8%) hypothermia deaths were of people age 65 years and older. Substance abuse or debilitating medical conditions are often a contributing cause in hypothermia deaths of individuals between the ages of 25-64. Since 1989, there have been 124 (47.5%) hypothermia deaths in this population. Fortunately, deaths in people less than 25 years of age are rare, accounting for only 7 (2.7%) of the total 261 Missouri hypothermia deaths during this timeframe.
Hypothermia Deaths by Age Group, 1989 - 2006
Hypothermia Deaths by Risk Factor, 1989 - 2006
Hypothermia Deaths by Age and Risk Factor, 1989-2006

In the Missouri winter weather seasons 1989 through 2006, the largest number of deaths was among white males, comprising 52.5% (n=137) of the 261 total cold related deaths.
Hypothermia Deaths by Race and Sex, 1989-2006

In Missouri, slightly more deaths have occurred in the more rural areas of the state than in the metropolitan areas. Jackson County had 39 (14.9%) deaths, St Louis County had 28 (10.7%), and St Louis City had 57 (21.8%) of the total 261 hypothermia deaths since 1989.
Hypothermia Deaths by Geographic Area, 1989-2006

Missouri is the only state that conducts on-going statewide surveillance for cold weather related illnesses and deaths. Health care providers are required to report cases of hypothermia to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.