Sudden death in Auckland.

A representative sample of all sudden cardiac deaths occurring in Auckland in one year is reported. Data describing demographic variables, personal characteristics and habits, previous symptoms, prodromal symptoms, the acute phase and post mortem results, is presented. Incidence values are very close to those of other similar communities. The syndrome of "sudden death" probably defines a heterogenous group of cases. Deaths were significantly more common in the cooler months, and in the lowest social class. Some evidence is presented consistent with the hypothesis that a high alcohol intake is associated with sudden death. No differences were found between cases dying within five minutes and those dying later but within 24 hours, considering several variables. Myocardial fibrosis at post mortem was a common finding. The role of the coronary ambulance is briefly discussed.