India’s Heart Crisis Hits Young, Working Population

Heart disease in India is no longer seen as a condition affecting only people above 50. Doctors are increasingly warning that younger, working professionals are also at risk.

Across cities and smaller towns, cardiovascular disease has become one of the leading causes of death. Experts say delayed diagnosis, lack of awareness, and lifestyle changes are contributing to the growing crisis.

The Awareness Gap

India’s doctor-to-patient ratio stands at 1:834, which is better than the World Health Organization’s suggested 1:1000 benchmark. However, access to quality healthcare, affordability of treatment, and limited facilities in smaller towns remain key challenges.

In many cases, families recognise heart disease only after an emergency. Late detection often increases emotional stress and financial burden.

To address this, The Times of India is hosting a cardiology-focused Medithon titled “Amazing Heart, Amazing Life” on February 28. The event aims to simplify complex medical information and connect doctors directly with the public.

Women’s Heart Health Often Overlooked

One of the major focus areas is heart disease in women. Doctors say symptoms in women can be subtle and easily ignored. Fatigue, mild breathlessness, or jaw discomfort may not always be recognised as warning signs.

The panel will feature:

• Dr Shibba Takkar Chhabra, Professor of Cardiology, Dayanand Medical College, Ludhiana

• Dr Zakia Khan, Head of Cardiology, Fortis Hospital, Kalyan

Experts will discuss gender-specific risk factors and why women are often underdiagnosed.

Life After a Heart Attack

Another session will focus on recovery after a heart attack. Doctors note that survival is only the first step. Rehabilitation, medication adherence, and emotional recovery are equally important.

The panel includes:

• Dr (Prof.) C.M. Nagesh, Founder & Director, Cardea Superspeciality Hospital, Bengaluru

• Dr Tahsin Neduvanchery, Senior Consultant, Aster MIMS Hospital, Kerala

The discussion will highlight realistic recovery timelines and the importance of lifestyle correction.

Rising Risk Among Younger Generations

Doctors are also concerned about increasing heart risk among Gen Z and Generation Alpha. Sedentary lifestyles, processed food, high stress levels, and excessive screen time are believed to be reshaping risk patterns.

The session will feature:

• Dr P. B. Jayagopal, Lakshmi Hospital, Kerala

• Dr Sarat Chandra, Jayanthi Superspeciality Hospital, Hyderabad

• Dr Anil Mishra, B.M. Birla Heart Research Centre, Kolkata

Experts will examine early warning signs, genetic factors, obesity trends, and the importance of preventive screening at a younger age.

Prevention Remains Key

The final panel will focus on prevention strategies such as blood pressure monitoring, diabetes control, regular screenings, and timely medical consultation.

Participating experts include:

• Dr Dhiman Kahali, B.M. Birla Heart Research Centre, Kolkata

• Dr Bagirath Raghuraman, Narayana Institute of Cardiac Sciences, Bengaluru

• Dr Rajiv D Karnik, Fortis Hospital, Mumbai

Doctors emphasise that prevention does not require extreme measures. Consistent daily habits, awareness, and early action can significantly reduce heart disease risk.

A Growing Public Health Concern

Medical experts say heart disease often develops silently over years. By the time symptoms appear, significant damage may have already occurred.

Events like Medithon aim to reduce myths, encourage timely check-ups, and promote practical heart health knowledge.

As India’s lifestyle patterns change, awareness and prevention may prove to be the strongest defence against a crisis that is no longer limited to older generations.