Fit Man’s Heart Health Crisis Sparks Global Awareness on World Heart Day

On World Heart Day 2025, a striking social media post by Communications strategy consultant Karthik Srinivasan has raised awareness about heart health, particularly among young professionals. Srinivasan, who maintained an active lifestyle by running 5 km daily and following a clean diet, revealed that he underwent angioplasty and later required two stents due to unexpected heart issues. His story highlights a growing concern regarding heart health in individuals who seemingly lead healthy lives.

Srinivasan’s journey began with an angiogram in 2011, which revealed early signs of heart complications. Despite his dedication to fitness and a balanced diet, he faced a harsh reality almost 15 years later when doctors discovered two significant blockages in his heart. “And yet, almost 15 years later, two blocks!” he expressed in his widely shared LinkedIn post. The experience left him questioning the reasons behind his heart health struggles.

In his post, Srinivasan emphasized the complexity of heart health, stating, “There are multiple factors that go into heart health.” He noted that he was fortunate not to have suffered a heart attack, as the need for an angiogram was identified in a timely manner. Following this revelation, he revamped his lifestyle even further.

Incorporating a range of health practices, Srinivasan has gradually resumed running, eliminated ultra-processed foods from his diet, and adopted deep breathing exercises both in the morning and before bed. He aims to enhance his overall well-being and prevent future complications.

The Hidden Dangers of a Sedentary Lifestyle

One critical aspect of Srinivasan’s health journey was a realization about the impact of a sedentary lifestyle. Despite his commitment to daily runs, his work required long hours of sitting in front of a laptop. This combination, he described, epitomizes the dangers of a sedentary lifestyle, a growing concern in today’s digital age.

Srinivasan shared that he had underestimated the movement alerts on his smartwatch, which he has worn since 2015. Initially, he dismissed these notifications, believing that achieving his daily step goals of 8,000 to 10,000 steps through running was sufficient. “I thought that was enough, and I could ignore the hourly movement alert,” he explained.

Recognizing the risks associated with prolonged sitting, he now utilizes an app designed to encourage movement. The app alerts him to stand and walk, with a specific goal of completing 250 steps per hour. “So the steps from my daily runs are now a bonus,” he added, underscoring the importance of regular movement throughout the day.

Srinivasan’s commitment to combating sedentary behavior reflects a broader public health message. He cautioned against the phrase, “Sitting is the new smoking,” emphasizing the need for increased awareness around the health risks of inactivity.

As World Heart Day continues to spotlight cardiovascular health, Srinivasan’s story serves as a reminder that fitness alone does not guarantee heart health. His experience encourages individuals to take a holistic approach to well-being, integrating regular movement and mindful eating into their daily routines.

Srinivasan’s candid account resonates with many and has stimulated discussions on social media regarding heart health, lifestyle choices, and the often-overlooked dangers of a sedentary lifestyle.