People are more likely to die of heart-related problems in the winter, irrespective of the climate they live in, a new study suggests.

According to the US scientists involved, these results are surprising, as climate 'was thought to be the primary determinant of seasonal variation in death rates'.

They analysed the death rates for a four-year period in seven different locations in the US. All areas had very different climates.

They found that deaths relating to the circulatory system, which included deaths from heart attack, heart disease, heart failure and stroke, rose by an average of 26% in the winter months compared to the summer.

This was seen across the board in all climates. In fact, no one area was statisically different from any other.

The scientists suggested that colder weather may lead to increased blood vessel constriction and higher blood pressure. They warned people to take extra care of themselves during the winter months.

"People generally don’t live as healthy in winter as they do in summer. They don’t eat as well and don’t exercise as much. However they should be extra aware that maintaining healthy behaviours is important in winter," the team said.

Details of these findings were presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2012.

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