Sri Jayadeva Institute Launches Campaign to Combat Youth Heart Attacks

The Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Research in India has initiated a campaign aimed at raising awareness about the increasing incidence of heart attacks among young people. The educational audio-visual capsule, titled “Nimma Hrudaya Namma Kalaji” (Your Heart, Our Care), was launched on March 5, 2024, by Lokayukta B.S. Patil. This initiative underscores the critical need for promoting healthy lifestyle practices, early detection of risk factors, and timely medical intervention to prevent serious cardiac conditions.

Director of the institute, K.S. Ravindranath, emphasized the alarming trend of heart attacks in younger demographics. “Our institute admits an average of 30 cardiac patients daily, with approximately 20% to 25% of them being under 45 years of age,” he reported. The campaign will utilize platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram to disseminate information on early detection, risk factors, and preventive measures for maintaining heart health.

According to the World Health Organization, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) pose a significant global health threat, contributing to 60% to 70% of deaths worldwide. Of these, heart attacks and strokes account for around 25% to 30%. Dr. Ravindranath pointed out the urgent need for awareness, particularly as young individuals increasingly face these risks.

Identifying New Risk Factors in Young Patients

The institute’s ongoing Premature Coronary Artery Disease (PCAD) project has enrolled over 5,000 heart patients under the age of 40. Preliminary findings indicate new risk factors prevalent among younger patients, including abnormal lipoproteins, insulin resistance, and elevated levels of homocysteine.

Dr. Ravindranath identified several lifestyle habits contributing to these alarming statistics. “Smoking, tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, sedentary lifestyles, and diets high in fats and sugars are major contributors to heart disease,” he noted. Furthermore, rising obesity rates, diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, stress, environmental pollution, and genetic predispositions significantly heighten the risk of heart-related issues.

The campaign reflects a growing recognition of the need to address these health concerns proactively. As the landscape of heart disease evolves, educational efforts such as this one may play a pivotal role in mitigating risks and promoting healthier lifestyles among young individuals.

Through this initiative, the Sri Jayadeva Institute aims not only to inform but also to empower individuals to take charge of their heart health, thus fostering a generation that prioritizes wellness and preventive care.