Abstract
Cold weather is one of causes that can be effected to higher morbidity and mortality in Thai citizens.
Hypothermia condition can lead to a dangerous of the brain and heart. A cross-sectional study aimed to
monitor trend, described characteristics of the deaths, identified risky behaviors and risk factors of coldrelated
to death for future planning in assistance to the victims. The guidance, definition of cold-related
deaths and reporting form have been developed for the surveillance system. The results showed that total
number of 30 deaths and suspected cases related to the cold weather had been reported from 21 provinces.
Out of these, 2 from Lei and Chiangrai province were confirmed for cold-related deaths. Most of them
were male (86.7%), mean age was 49 years, 30.1% were elderly (> 60 years). 40.0% were indoor deaths
whilst the others were outdoor deaths. The major risk factors were exposure to cold weather combined
with alcohol drinking, having underlying diseases and wearing clothing that could not prevent cold weather
(60.0%, 53.3% and 83.3% respectively). The above results can be beneficial to the health care guidance,
providing appropriate assistance to the risk group such as children, elderly or people with underlying
diseases including health service, referral system and provide warm clothing in order to decrease coldrelated
mortality.
