Cardiologists Link Breathlessness to Hidden Heart Conditions
Medical experts have issued a crucial warning that symptoms like breathlessness or difficulty walking, commonly associated with respiratory problems, may actually indicate underlying heart disease. This alert came during a pre-event program ahead of CARDICON 2026, a major national cardiology conference scheduled to begin on February 13 at King George's Medical University in Lucknow.
Heart-Lung Coordination and Diagnostic Challenges
Speakers emphasized that the heart and lungs function in close coordination within the body's circulatory system. When persistent breathlessness fails to improve with initial respiratory treatments, it should prompt immediate evaluation by a cardiologist. Early identification of cardiac causes behind respiratory complaints is absolutely critical for timely diagnosis and life-saving intervention.
CARDICON 2026: A Gathering of Cardiac Specialists
More than 200 cardiologists and medical professionals are expected to attend this significant two-day conference, which is being organized by the Cardiology Society of India. The event will take place at the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Scientific Convention Centre on the KGMU campus, with Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak scheduled to inaugurate the cardiologists' meet.
Rising Heart Disease Epidemic and Lifestyle Factors
Addressing a press conference at the Lari Cardiology Department, Professor Rishi Sethi, Head of the Cardiology Department, expressed deep concern about the rapidly increasing prevalence of heart disease. "Heart disease is rising rapidly, driven largely by lifestyle factors," he stated. He specifically identified increased consumption of fast food and sugary beverages, combined with reduced physical activity, as major contributors to this growing health burden.
Professor Sethi noted the alarming trend of heart attacks now occurring in younger age groups and the frequent detection of vascular blockages. However, he also highlighted promising developments in medical technology that are improving treatment outcomes. Laser-assisted procedures can remove arterial blockages with greater precision, and the department is actively working to procure a laser system to expand these advanced services.
Conference Focus Areas and Educational Objectives
Professor Akshay Pradhan, the Organizing Secretary, detailed that the conference would bring together cardiologists, physicians, and researchers for comprehensive sessions focusing on:
- Recent advances in cardiac treatment protocols
- Development and application of new pharmaceutical drugs
- Innovative diagnostic tools and technologies
- Evolving management strategies for cardiovascular conditions
Discussions will also address specialized topics including cardiac complications during pregnancy, alongside practical demonstrations through live case studies, expert lectures, and panel deliberations.
Key Risk Factors and Preventive Recommendations
Professor Gaurav Chaudhary identified several major cardiac risk factors that require attention:
- Diabetes and its management
- Kidney disease and its cardiovascular implications
- Hypertension control
- Obesity and weight management
He advised maintaining daily physical activity of 10,000 to 12,000 steps as a fundamental preventive measure. Dr. Akhil Sharma further emphasized the importance of diet control, consistent weight management, and avoiding sedentary habits as key strategies for heart disease prevention.
Strengthening Clinical Practice Through Knowledge Sharing
Conference organizers stated that the primary aim of CARDICON 2026 is to update clinicians on current evidence-based practices and strengthen cardiac care through shared expertise. This collaborative approach seeks to bridge the gap between emerging research and practical clinical application, ultimately improving patient outcomes across the cardiovascular care spectrum.
