Heart Disease No Longer a Late-Life Condition in India
Heart disease is no longer a condition that arrives only in old age. Across India, it is emerging earlier, progressing silently, and striking without clear warnings. This alarming shift was the central theme of discussions at the TOI Cardio Medithon 4, held on March 30 under the theme “The New Age of Heart Health, Awareness and Action.” The conversations moved beyond standard medical advice to focus on real-world gaps: delayed diagnosis, confusing symptoms, and everyday habits that gradually weaken the heart. A clear message emerged: awareness alone is insufficient. Action, consistency, and early attention are now more critical than ever.
Prevention: Simple Rules Often Ignored
The first panel highlighted a fundamental yet widely neglected aspect: prevention. Dr. Anil Dhall, MD, DM (Cardiology), Consultant Cardiologist & Program Leader at The Heart Clinic, Gurugram, presented a practical formula rooted in daily living: right food, right thinking, right behavior, and timely treatment can reduce illness risks. However, he noted that genetics can still play a role, even with good habits. Dr. P. P. Mohammed Musthafa, Chairman & Chief Interventional Cardiologist at Metromed International Cardiac Centre, Calicut, emphasized a critical concern: very few people experience chest pain as a clear warning. Many confuse heart attack symptoms with gas or acidity, leading to dangerous delays. Dr. Pratap Kumar Pradhan, Senior Consultant in Interventional Cardiology at Hi Tech Medical College and Hospital, Bhubaneswar, identified three key triggers: tobacco use, obesity, and sedentary lifestyles. The advice was straightforward: control these early and maintain consistency with regular tests. The discussion made it clear that prevention fails not from lack of knowledge but from inconsistency in daily choices.
Life After a Heart Attack: Recovery Demands Effort
Surviving a heart attack is often seen as a second chance, but doctors at the Medithon stressed that recovery is not automatic—it requires active patient effort. Dr. P. V. Girish, Senior Consultant Interventional Cardiologist at Metromed International Cardiac Centre, Calicut, explained that post-heart attack life largely depends on patient response, with discipline shaping outcomes. Dr. Ashish Kumar Jha, Chief Interventional Cardiologist & HOD of Cardiology at Heart Hospital, Patna, outlined recovery in four phases: patient education starting as early as the third day, followed by structured exercise, medication, and strong emotional support from family and friends. Dr. B. R. J. Kannan, Director of Cardiology at Vadamalayan Hospital, Madurai, added that the extent of heart muscle damage significantly influences recovery potential and future quality of life. This session shifted focus from mere survival to holistic well-being, encompassing fear, lifestyle adjustments, and long-term commitment.
Women and Heart Health: Overlooked Symptoms
Heart disease in women often remains under-recognized, and this panel addressed that gap directly. Dr. P. Naga Sri Haritha, HOD & Senior Consultant Interventional Cardiologist and Director of Cardiac Sciences at KIMS Hospital, Guntur, identified stress as a major factor, with women experiencing emotional and physical stress in ways that silently affect heart health. Dr. Sarita Choudhary, Professor in the Department of Cardiology at SMS Medical College & Hospital, Jaipur, explained that women’s symptoms are often atypical: instead of sharp chest pain, they may feel fatigue, breathlessness at rest, nausea, or vague discomfort. Dr. Hema Malathi Rath, Assistant Professor at NRS Medical College, Kolkata, pointed to life stages that increase risk, such as pregnancy, where the heart works harder due to increased blood volume, and menopause, where reduced estrogen levels can raise bad cholesterol. The takeaway was clear: many women ignore early signs because they do not match “classic” symptoms.
Younger Generations: Risks Start Earlier Than Expected
One of the most concerning discussions at the Medithon focused on how early heart risks are now beginning. Dr. P. Arun Prasath, Director of Cardiology at Surendra Multispeciality Hospital, Cuddalore, warned about ultra-processed foods, with high sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats quietly increasing heart risk. He notably stated: “sitting is the new smoking.” Dr. E. Arunachalam, Consultant Interventional Cardiologist and Director of Cardiology at Aruna Cardiac Care, Tirunelveli, highlighted that youth does not guarantee a healthy heart, with heart-related changes potentially starting as early as age 10. Dr. Harikrishnan P, Senior Consultant Interventional Cardiologist at Apollo Speciality Hospitals, Chennai, stressed the importance of staying active through regular movement, small breaks from sitting, and any physical activity. This panel reflected a shift in reality: heart care is no longer a concern only after 40; it now begins much earlier, shaped by lifestyle choices made in school and college years.
Awareness Must Turn Into Action
TOI Cardio Medithon 4 highlighted a persistent gap affecting outcomes across India: people may know about heart risks but often act too late. The discussions showed that early testing, recognizing unusual symptoms, and making steady lifestyle changes can prevent many cases. However, challenges like cost, access to care, and misinformation remain. What stood out most was a simple yet powerful idea: the heart does not fail suddenly; it weakens slowly, shaped by daily habits, stress, and missed warning signs. Recognizing this early can significantly change outcomes, emphasizing the need for proactive health management in modern India.
