New York State Urges Seniors to Recognize Sepsis Risks
During Sepsis Awareness Month, the New York State Office for the Aging and the New York State Department of Health have issued a warning about the risks of sepsis, a severe and potentially life-threatening condition that is often preventable. This call to action serves as a reminder that while anyone can develop sepsis, older adults remain particularly vulnerable.
In recognition of this important month, Gov. Kathy Hochul proclaimed that “we must and will continue to raise awareness of the dangers of sepsis to help individuals recognize the signs of the medical emergency, and to strengthen sepsis treatments for the benefit of all New Yorkers.” Sepsis represents the body’s extreme response to infection, which can result in tissue damage, organ failure, and death.
Sepsis is a leading cause of mortality in hospitals across the United States. Approximately 90% of cases originate in the community, making early recognition essential. According to the New York State Department of Health, around 6% of hospitalizations are attributed to sepsis, with 35% of in-hospital deaths resulting from the condition.
Understanding Sepsis and Its Risks
“Sepsis can be deadly and does not discriminate by age. It is particularly threatening to older adults, young children, and people with underlying medical conditions,” stated Greg Olsen, Director of the New York State Office for the Aging. He emphasized the importance of recognizing symptoms such as fever, extreme pain, high heart rate, shortness of breath, confusion, and clammy or sweaty skin.
The New York State Health Commissioner, Dr. James McDonald, echoed this sentiment, urging all residents to be aware of the symptoms associated with sepsis and to seek medical help quickly if they suspect this serious condition. Vulnerable populations, including older adults, young children, pregnant women, and those with pre-existing medical issues, face a higher risk of developing sepsis.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified key signs of sepsis, which can manifest in various ways. Immediate medical attention is critical for anyone experiencing an infection that is worsening or not improving.
Sepsis Statistics and Impact
In New York, severe sepsis and septic shock affect approximately 73,000 adults and 600 children each year. Nationally, at least 1.7 million adults are diagnosed with sepsis annually, leading to a staggering number of fatalities. At least 350,000 adults who develop sepsis either die during hospitalization or are discharged to hospice care. Alarmingly, one in three individuals who die in a hospital had sepsis during their stay.
Resources for further information can be found at aging.ny.gov/sepsis-awareness-and-prevention, which provides valuable data regarding sepsis and its impact on older adults.
Thomas Heymann, President and CEO of the Sepsis Alliance, highlighted the severity of the issue, stating, “Sepsis kills more Americans each year than breast cancer, prostate cancer, and opioid overdoses combined, yet too few people know the signs and symptoms.” He commended New York’s initiative to recognize Sepsis Awareness Month, emphasizing the importance of education and prevention efforts.
As communities work together to raise awareness, particularly among older adults and other at-risk populations, there is potential to save lives and mitigate the profound effects of sepsis on families and communities throughout New York and beyond.
