Heart disease could kill 2 million Indians in 2010

Cardiovascular diseases are steadily emerging as the number one killer worldwide; the implications are even more significant in India.

Experts have predicted 3.75 million deaths due to cardiovascular diseases in 2010 across the country. Out of this, a whopping 2 million deaths will be due to heart attacks or coronary artery diseases (CAD).

Experts say early diagnosis, healthy food habits and lifestyle is the only key to increase the survival rate.

Citing the example of Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, his surgeon Dr Ramakanta Panda said, “Our PM was an ideal patient with good food habits and controlled sugar levels despite of being a diabetic.

Thus, after a complex bypass surgery for the second time, he has managed to bounce back.” Singh was operated on January 24, 2009 by Panda, cardiac surgeon from the Asian Heart Institute and his team.  Singh, who was 76, underwent a coronary artery bypass graft for his heart blockages.

 “People say that the PM’s energy levels have doubled up after the surgery. He is the perfect example to convey that one can lead a completely normal life after surgery,” said Panda adding that there are merely 5 per cent patients who develop heart ailments despite of having a disciplined life.  Rest all, are ignorant about their food habits, weight and smoke and drink regularly. 

 Dr BK Goyal, Director, Cardiology, Bombay Hospital had a similar view. “Majority of the patients have unhealthy food habits, bad lifestyle and are ignorant towards their health. Early diagnosis of the disease can save many lives but not many choose to opt for the same.”

According to Goyal, people still have misconceptions like chest pain is caused due to indigestion or acidity. “They are not yet proactive to get a test done after developing chest pain,” said Goyal adding that people below 40 years of age are largely suffering with heart ailments now.