Perforated peptic ulcer--a seasonal disease?

All hospital admissions for perforated peptic ulcer in the State of Western Australia from 1971 to 1981 inclusive were used to study the seasonal fluctuation, prevalence and mortality. This represented 1187 admissions. A significant seasonal peak was found during November, December and January. There was a marked reduction in admissions in the last three years, i.e. 1979-81, representing a 35% drop from previous levels. The overall mortality was 6.6%, but was 1.8% in patients less than 65 years, and 17.3% in patients 65 years or older.