A RISE IN HEART ATTACK DEATHS IN INDIA

Heart disease is a leading cause of death worldwide, and India is no exception. According to the 2017 study "India: Health of the Nation’s States. The India State-Level Disease Burden Initiative” conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research, heart diseases were the number one cause of death, contributing to 28.1% of total deaths in India, in 20161. The majority of heart patients are people with Coronary Heart Diseases.

Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) is the most common culprit behind these deaths. CHD occurs when plaque buildup narrows the arteries supplying blood to the heart. This restricted blood flow can lead to heart attacks, a life-threatening condition.

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation and rapid defibrillation are the universally accepted first-aid procedures that save life during sudden cardiac arrest.

Combating the Crisis
Experts emphasize the crucial role of preventive measures in this fight against heart attack. By adopting a healthy lifestyle, you can significantly reduce risk. Here are some key measures you can take to protect your heart:

  • Eat a heart-healthy diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Limit saturated and unhealthy fats, salt, and added sugars2.
  • Get regular exercise: Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week. Brisk walking, cycling, and swimming are all excellent options2.
  • Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity is a major risk factor for heart disease. Shedding excess weight through healthy practices can significantly improve your heart health2.
  • Manage stress: Chronic stress can raise blood pressure and increase your risk of heart problems. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as yoga, meditation, or spending time in nature2.
  • Don't smoke: Smoking is one of the leading causes of heart disease. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your heart health2.
  • Control your blood pressure and cholesterol: High blood pressure and cholesterol are major risk factors for heart disease. Work with your doctor to keep these levels under control2.
  • Get regular checkups: Schedule regular checkups with your doctor to monitor your heart health and identify any potential problems early on2.
  • Cardiac Abnormalities: Check if you are prone to any cardiac abnormalities as a part of preventive heartcare2.
  • Signs of Heart Attack: Don’t overlook the 7 signs of heart attack. Get an instant ECG done to ascertain or rule out heart attack. If heart attack, call for emergency services immediately2.

Heartcare Awareness is Key By following these steps, you can significantly reduce your life risk due to heart disease and live a longer, healthier life. Remember, a healthy heart is essential for overall well-being. Make your heart health a first priority and protect yourselves from this preventable disease.

Collective Action for a Healthier Future India faces a serious health challenge. To overcome it, a concerted effort is required. Promoting heart-healthy lifestyles, encouraging preventive measures, and ensuring timely medical services in the event of a heart attack are crucial steps in saving lives. By working together, we can create a future where heart disease claims fewer lives.

1.India: Health of the Nation States - The India State-Level Disease Burden Initiative” Study conducted by Indian Council of Medical Research, Public Health Foundation of India and Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, Seattle, USA. https://main.icmr.nic.in/sites/default/files/reports/2017_India_State_Level_Disease_Burden_Initiative_Full_Report.pdf

2.Lifestyle Strategies for Risk Factor Reduction, Prevention, and Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease by James M. Rippe, MD, Founder and Director, Rippe Lifestyle Institute.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6378495/