Cardiologists are warning Australians about a surge in heart attacks and cardiac stress during the Christmas and New Year period. The combination of overindulgence, alcohol consumption, heat, disrupted sleep patterns and sudden increases in exercise creates dangerous conditions for heart health. Dr David O'Donnell recommends focusing on five key pillars of heart health: exercise, sleep, alcohol moderation, nutrition and stress management, while emphasising the importance of cardiac screening for those over 45.