Heart disease is a leading cause of death around the world, and it’s increasingly affecting younger people. In India, various factors like unhealthy diets, lack of exercise, high stress, smoking, and diabetes worsen this issue. With a genetic predisposition, awareness is key to preventing heart problems.
To raise awareness about heart disease and promote healthy living, the Times of India organized a Medithon on February 14. Esteemed cardiologists and health experts spoke at this event, emphasizing lifestyle changes necessary for heart health, including daily exercise, nutritious meals, and mental wellness.
One session focused on the alarming rise in heart disease among young people. Dr. Prathap Kumar highlighted the importance of growing your own vegetables and preparing home-cooked meals, suggesting that many young people rely too heavily on takeout. He encouraged adopting new activities at home for better health.
Dr. Thomas Alexander reminded attendees to declutter their minds, explaining how mental well-being is tied to physical health. He shared practical tips to prioritize health and make better choices.
Dr. Saumitra Ray discussed how heart disease shows up earlier in Indians than in other countries, making awareness vital. Recognizing risk factors and taking preventive steps were emphasized as essential for heart health.
The second session focused on prevention strategies. Dr. Tarun Madan stressed making lifestyle changes, especially following the sedentary times brought on by COVID. Simple actions like walking 10,000 to 15,000 steps a day and reducing screen time can have a big impact. Dr. Vijay Pathak encouraged breaking free from a sedentary lifestyle through regular, light activities instead of strict workout regimens.
Dr. D K Baruah discussed obesity as a key risk factor for heart disease. He made a distinction between different types of obesity, emphasizing the dangers of central obesity, which is linked to higher heart-related risks.
Another important topic was heart disease in women. Dr. C S Srinivas Raju pointed out that high levels of stress and lack of physical activity put younger women at risk. He highlighted the need for proper lifestyle changes and preventive care.
Dr. K Jaishankar explained how women often have different symptoms of heart disease compared to men, making it easy to overlook. Common symptoms can include chest discomfort and gastric issues, which can lead to misdiagnosis. His message: women need to be aware of these signs and seek prompt medical attention.
Dietary advice was also shared. Dr. B Ramesh recommended sticking to traditional diets, rich in fruits and vegetables, while minimizing processed foods. Regular health check-ups were also advised for early detection of heart issues.
Effective management of heart disease involves making key lifestyle changes and maintaining regular check-ups. Dr. Karasani Srinivasa Reddy highlighted that a balanced diet filled with fruits and vegetables significantly supports heart health. He also stressed the importance of regular ECGs for early detection of heart issues, especially if symptoms appear.
For those recovering from a heart attack, Dr. Prabhu C Halkati advised focusing on heart care through diet and exercise. He encouraged daily yoga to boost both physical and mental health.
The TOI Medithon Part 4 each session underscored the importance of prevention, inspiring attendees to adopt healthier lifestyles and prioritize their heart health.
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