New Delhi

A disturbing rise in sudden heart attack deaths in Karnataka’s Hassan district has triggered concern about growing cardiovascular risks, especially among young and middle-aged Indians. On June 30 alone, four individuals aged between 50 and 63 died suddenly of cardiac events, bringing the total number of heart-related deaths in the district to 22 over the last 40 days. The youngest among them was just 19 years old.

This series of incidents has prompted an increase in precautionary visits to cardiac centres, with hospitals in Bengaluru, including the Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, reporting a surge in outpatient consultations, many from Hassan and neighbouring areas.

The trend highlights a broader national concern over heart health, as similar cases continue to emerge across India. Health experts point to a mix of deadly lifestyle factors contributing to the rise in cardiovascular issues, particularly among younger populations who were once considered low-risk.

The recent deaths are being linked to a combination of chronic stress, poor sleep habits, unhealthy diets, sedentary lifestyles, and tobacco use. These lifestyle choices, often compounded over time, are believed to weaken the heart and make individuals more vulnerable to sudden cardiac arrest, even if they appear outwardly healthy and have no prior history of heart disease.

Lack of adequate sleep, frequent consumption of fried or sugary foods, and use of smokeless tobacco have been especially noted as key contributors. Together, they create conditions that may destabilize heart rhythms, especially under physical or emotional stress.

What makes the current trend especially alarming is the increasing number of cases among people in their 20s, 30s, and 40s. Some of these individuals collapse unexpectedly while working, exercising, or even after long periods of screen time and sleep deprivation. Even in the absence of underlying structural heart issues, sudden stress can cause dangerous surges in hormones that may lead to cardiac arrest.

Sudden overexertion, like untrained individuals participating in marathons or high-intensity workouts, has also been identified as a risk. The misconception that youth provides immunity to heart problems has led many to push their bodies beyond safe limits without proper conditioning or medical guidance.

In response to rising health concerns, some people have turned to unproven wellness trends like IV drips, anti-ageing therapies, and rapid weight-loss drugs. However, these approaches carry their own risks and may not offer real protection against cardiac conditions. Certain injectable therapies and supplements, when taken without medical supervision, may lead to serious complications, including inflammation of vital organs.

While some science-backed supplements, such as vitamin D or omega-3, may offer benefits, experts stress they should only be used when medically indicated. The focus, they argue, should be on sustainable, long-term changes in lifestyle rather than quick fixes.

The Karnataka Health Department has initiated an investigation into the heart-related deaths in Hassan. A committee has been formed to explore potential causes, including the possibility of post-COVID complications or other medical factors.

Over the past two years, Hassan district has recorded 507 cases of heart attacks, with 190 resulting in fatalities, an indication of a growing public health emergency.

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The rise in sudden cardiac deaths among young Indians is a wake-up call. Simple preventive measures—such as regular physical activity, a balanced diet, stress management, quality sleep, and timely health screenings—can make a significant difference. With early awareness and action, many of these tragic outcomes can be avoided.