In a compelling effort to promote heart health and raise awareness about cardiovascular diseases, Kailash Deepak Hospital in Delhi marked World Heart Day by hosting an engaging public event featuring renowned cardiologists. The hospital’s initiative aimed to educate the community about the rising prevalence of heart disease, its symptoms, risk factors, and essential preventive measures.

Dr. Ajay Mittal, Senior Consultant in Cardiology at Kailash Deepak Hospital, addressed a gathering of community members and hospital staff, shedding light on a growing health crisis among India’s youth. He cited startling statistics indicating that heart disease is now impacting younger individuals at an alarming rate, with one in five individuals aged 30 suffering from some form of heart-related ailment. “This trend is deeply concerning, as heart diseases, traditionally viewed as ailments affecting older people, are now becoming prevalent among young adults and even adolescents,” Dr. Mittal stated.

Dr. Mittal explained that the surge in heart disease cases is primarily attributed to an unhealthy lifestyle, lack of physical activity, and poor dietary habits. “The increased consumption of fast food, prolonged hours of sedentary behavior, smoking, and alcohol use are the primary culprits behind this epidemic,” he noted. Dr. Mittal also emphasized the detrimental effects of chronic stress, which is often overlooked as a contributing factor to heart disease. He urged individuals to be mindful of their mental health and adopt stress management techniques, such as mindfulness and regular exercise.

One surprising yet important point raised by Dr. Mittal was the negative impact of excessive mobile phone usage, particularly at night, on heart health. He referenced recent studies that have suggested a correlation between prolonged mobile screen exposure and adverse effects on cardiovascular function. “People should avoid using mobile phones late at night, as it disrupts sleep patterns and can lead to increased stress levels, further impacting heart health,” he cautioned.

Adding to the discussion, Dr. Mitesh, Senior Consultant and Head of the Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery (CTVS) department at Kailash Deepak Hospital, spoke about the significance of awareness and prevention in tackling the growing burden of heart disease. He highlighted the role of a balanced diet and regular physical activity in maintaining cardiovascular health. “A healthy lifestyle can go a long way in preventing heart diseases. We encourage everyone to incorporate fresh fruits and vegetables into their diet, reduce their salt and sugar intake, and engage in at least 30 minutes of physical exercise daily,” he advised.

Dr. Mitesh also underscored the importance of routine health check-ups, especially for individuals with a family history of heart disease. He pointed out that early detection through regular monitoring of blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar can significantly reduce the risk of severe cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes.

The World Heart Day event at Kailash Deepak Hospital was not just limited to discussions but also included free health check-ups and consultations. Participants were given the opportunity to get their blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels checked, along with consultations on weight management and stress reduction strategies. The hospital’s dedicated cardiology team also provided detailed information on recognizing early signs of heart disease, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and unexplained fatigue.

Through this initiative, the hospital aimed to drive home the message that heart health is a priority for all age groups. The hospital’s staff reiterated the need for community-based awareness campaigns to educate the public on the importance of adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle from an early age.

“Raising awareness and educating people is the first step towards building a heart-healthy community,” Dr. Mittal concluded, emphasizing the need for collective action to curb the rising prevalence of heart diseases. He encouraged everyone to take charge of their health and make informed choices to protect their hearts.

Dr. Mahesh Sharma, Founder of the Kailash Group and Member of Parliament for Gautam Budh Nagar, emphasised the importance of holistic lifestyle practices in effectively managing and preventing heart diseases.

 Dr. Sharma underscored that adopting a healthy routine—comprising regular yogic exercises, meditation, controlling high blood pressure and diabetes, ensuring adequate sleep, and consuming a balanced diet—can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular ailments. “A holistic approach to health that integrates both physical and mental well-being is crucial for maintaining a healthy heart,” he said, encouraging people of all age groups to incorporate these habits into their daily lives.

Expanding on the need for early prevention, Dr. Vandana Bagga, Director General of Health Services, GNCTD, highlighted the critical role of the younger generation in shaping the future of the nation. “The youth are the future of our country, and it is essential for them to live a balanced life and adopt healthy habits from an early age,” she stated. Dr. Bagga urged youngsters to avoid habits that can negatively impact their health, such as consuming inflammatory foods, drinking alcohol, and smoking. She pointed out that poor lifestyle choices not only increase the risk of developing heart disease but can also lead to a range of other chronic health issues later in life.

Dr. Kartik Sharma, Director of the Kailash Group of Hospitals, also spoke about the hospital’s commitment to providing world-class cardiac care to its patients. He noted that Kailash Deepak Hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and advanced technology, enabling the delivery of comprehensive cardiac care services. “We have a dedicated team of specialists and cutting-edge technology to ensure that patients with heart diseases receive the highest standard of care,” Dr. Sharma said. 

He added that the hospital’s focus extends beyond treatment, emphasising preventive care and patient education to promote long-term heart health.

With the successful organization of this World Heart Day event, Kailash Deepak Hospital continues to establish itself as a leader in community health initiatives, providing valuable health education and promoting wellness for all.