Is it a coincidence that Carrie Fisher and Debbie Reynolds died within one day of each other? Is it a coincidence that they both died in winter? Is it a coincidence that the highest death rate occurs during the winter season? I’m not entirely sure if there are coincidences when it comes to death and dying, but there does seem to be evidence that states otherwise.

The winter season is responsible for 69% of U.S. deaths, while the summer season is responsible for a mere 7%, and non-seasonal deaths share approximately 24% within the states. Above all, however, the main causes of death for those in the winter season are heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, lung disease, liver disease, vascular disease, and infectious diseases, such as influenza and pneumonia.

There is an interesting correlation between winter deaths and heart failure/stroke. It is almost as if the stress of the holidays weighs too heavily on the hearts of many during the particular season. Carrie Fisher, dying of a cardiac arrest, and Debbie Reynolds, dying of a stroke, are examples of two seasonal deaths that may be due to increased stress or tension during a specific time.

The recent turn of events calls into question the idea of Broken Heart Syndrome, thus adding to the increased death toll. Also known as stress-induced cardiomyopathy, Broken Heart Syndrome can be caused by an emotionally stressful event, such as the death of a close friend or family member. It is unfortunate that we don’t realize the reality of this syndrome until it occurs to those with high levels of fame.

It wasn’t until recent that I realized the heightened amount of deaths within the celebrity population, particularly in the winter. If the category of fame was to be disregarded, then imagine the vast tally of society that is additionally contributing to the death margin.

Cold weather doesn’t play as large a role in loss of life as expected. Contrary to popular belief, influenza and pneumonia are not caused by plummeting temperatures. They are, however, still large influencers of demise in the winter, despite the weather.

Aside from poor health, the homeless population faces a massive death total by the end of winter each year. In large cities, such as Seattle, encampments can be found under many freeway overpasses and along the streets. A small wool blanket and empty stomach can barely surmount the perils of a long 20 degree night.

The winter season is surely a deadly one, and for some, it is an accomplishment to make it through unscathed. A cure for the killing season seems impossible without completely depleting stress and the size of the homeless community. How, then, can we minimize the casualties?