Early onset of cardiac issues a pointer to lifestyle changes, lack of physical activity: Ravindranath

The early onset of cardiac issues among the youth is an indicator of lifestyle changes, including food, and absence of physical activity, which are a matter of concern, said K.S. Ravindranath of Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Research here on Sunday.

He was speaking at an event organised by the Ursu Jagrathi Academy Charitable Trust in Mysuru on Sunday, marking Doctors’ Day.

Dr. Ravindranath said nearly 60 to 70% of deaths are due to non-communicable diseases (NCDs), of which heart-related ailments account for nearly 25%.

He pointed out that these are largely the result of lifestyle changes — sedentary habits, poor dietary choices, increased intake of red meat, processed and junk food, and reduced physical activity, even among children, said Dr. Ravindranath.

He said that in contrast to earlier generations who lived well into their 80s, today’s generation is battling obesity, hypertension, and diabetes at much younger ages. Many people are unaware they have high blood pressure or sugar, and these are silent killers, he cautioned and urged those in the age group of 30 to 40 to undergo medical check-ups periodically.

Dr. Ravindranath expressed concern over rising substance abuse, including smoking and ganja consumption, as well as increasing psychological stress and environmental pollution, all of which are taking a toll on public health.

On the challenges faced by the medical community, he expressed concern over attack on the medical fraternity. “Doctors dedicate their prime years to study and service, often at the cost of family time. Society places immense trust in doctors, but we are sometimes unable to save lives when patients are brought in critical condition. This has led to unfortunate instances of violence against doctors and hospitals, which should stop,” he said.

While noting that laws have been enacted to protect medical professionals from such assaults, he also flagged shortage of personnel and inadequate infrastructure in rural areas as pressing concerns. “Despite constraints, many doctors continue to serve in rural and taluk-level hospitals,” he said.

Six doctors were felicitated on the occasion for their outstanding service in the medical field and presented with ‘Vaidyashree’ awards. They are Jayaprakash Narayan of Bengaluru, and five others from Mysuru, Rajashekar, Rajeshwari, S. Kumar Raj Urs, Kavitawadi, and P. Shastar.