Surge in Heart Issues Among Young Indians Sparks Health Concerns

In response to alarming reports of sudden cardiac deaths among young adults in Karnataka's Hassan district, Dr. Ramakanta Panda, a leading cardiac surgeon, has emphasized the need for immediate lifestyle changes. The recent deaths of four individuals on June 30, 2025, aged between 50 and 63, have heightened concerns about a burgeoning heart health crisis affecting younger populations across India. This incident is part of a broader trend, with 22 heart-related fatalities reported in the district over the past 40 days, including a tragic case involving a 19-year-old.

Dr. Panda, who serves as the Chairman of the Asian Heart Institute, noted that the rise in such cases is not a mere coincidence but reflects a significant deterioration in lifestyle choices over the years. "Thirty years ago, I would see one 30-year-old with cardiac arrest in a year. Today, I see cases almost every other day, sometimes four in a single day," he stated, highlighting the concerning frequency of these incidents.

According to data from the Karnataka Health Department, there has been an 8% increase in outpatient visits for heart-related issues at hospitals like the Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, particularly from residents in Hassan and surrounding areas who are seeking precautionary check-ups. This uptick underscores the growing anxiety among the populace regarding cardiovascular health.

Dr. Panda attributes this rising trend primarily to several lifestyle factors: sedentary behavior, poor dietary choices, chronic stress, tobacco usage, and inadequate sleep. He remarks, "People are not sleeping by 10 PM, they’re not getting eight hours of rest, they consume fried, fatty, and sugary foods, and many continue to use smokeless tobacco, which is more hazardous than smoking." The combination of these factors is creating what he describes as a 'perfect storm' for cardiovascular issues.

Moreover, the surgeon warns that many young individuals who suddenly engage in high-intensity activities, particularly during endurance events, are putting themselves at significant risk. "Many cardiac arrests during marathons happen in the last mile when people push beyond what their bodies are conditioned for. It’s a dangerous illusion that youth equals invincibility," he cautioned.

As health awareness increases, many people have turned to supplements and wellness therapies. However, Dr. Panda advises caution, pointing out the lack of scientific backing for certain treatments, such as intravenous (IV) wellness therapies. He also expressed concerns over the unsupervised use of new weight-loss medications, emphasizing that these should only be administered under medical supervision due to potential side effects.

Dr. Panda advocates for a fundamental approach to heart health, recommending balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and effective stress management. He asserts that many of the deaths observed in young adults are preventable with early intervention and lifestyle modifications.

Despite the absence of an official advisory from the Karnataka Health Department, local health officials are closely monitoring the situation. The District Health and Family Welfare Department has reported a total of 507 heart attack cases in Hassan over the past two years, with 190 fatalities, signaling a public health emergency that necessitates immediate action and awareness.

In conclusion, the rise in heart disease among younger demographics in India poses a critical challenge for public health. The insights from Dr. Panda highlight the urgent need for a cultural shift in health practices, focusing on prevention and awareness to combat the increasing prevalence of cardiovascular diseases. If addressed proactively, the wave of young deaths could be significantly mitigated, saving countless lives in the process.