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India is in the middle of a heart disease crisis. While genetics play a role, the real enemy is poor lifestyle choices
Your heart works tirelessly for you—it’s time to return the favor. A few small changes today can make all the difference for a healthier tomorrow.
From unhealthy diets to endless screen time, our daily choices are shaping the fate of our hearts—literally. Despite making up 18% of the world’s population, India accounts for 60% of global heart disease cases. Shocking, right? The truth is, heart disease is no longer just an “old people’s problem”—it is creeping into younger generations faster than ever.
So, what is putting you at risk? High blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, and, most importantly, an unhealthy lifestyle. These silent killers are pushing millions toward a ticking time bomb without them even realizing it. News18 spoke to multiple healthcare professionals to uncover alarming insights into this growing epidemic.
The Silent Threat Lurking Inside You
Dr. Lalit Kapoor, Senior Consultant, Cardiac Surgery, Narayana Health, Kolkata, calls hypertension a “silent killer” because it sneaks up without symptoms. He warns, “Many people in India don’t even know they have high blood pressure until it leads to a heart attack, stroke, or kidney failure.” Minor signs—such as swollen feet, recurrent headaches, mild chest discomfort, persistent fatigue, or bloating—are often brushed off but could be early warnings of heart trouble.
What’s on Your Plate Could Be Killing You
Let’s be real—most of us love deep-fried snacks, sugar-loaded desserts, and refined carbs. However, these guilty pleasures are fueling obesity and diabetes, setting the stage for heart disease. Dr. Surendra Kumar Agarwal, Head of CVTS at Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, highlights a simple yet powerful truth:
“People need to understand that a proper diet, regular (but not excessive) exercise, and stress management could reduce heart disease by at least 25%—if not more.”
Smoking, Drinking & the “Small Habits” That Add Up
Think an occasional drink or a cigarette here and there won’t hurt? Think again. Dr. Atanu Saha, Senior Consultant Cardiac Surgeon, NH R.N. Tagore Hospital, Kolkata, breaks it down:
“Tobacco—whether smoked or chewed—damages blood vessels, raises blood pressure, and increases blockages. While occasional drinking isn’t the biggest issue, it’s the small habits that add up over time. Cutting back on smoking and drinking can significantly lower heart disease risk.”
Why Are Indians More Prone to Heart Disease?
Indians develop heart disease much earlier than people in the West. Dr. R.K. Jaswal, Director & HOD of Cardiology at Fortis Hospital Mohali, explains, “Genetically, Indians have a 2-3 times higher risk of heart disease compared to Caucasians. That’s why India is often called the ‘diabetes and heart disease capital of the world.’”
Take Charge Before It’s Too Late
The good news? Heart disease is largely preventable. Dr. Rajneesh Malhotra, Vice Chairman & Head, CTVS at MAX Healthcare, Delhi, says, “Regular health checks—like blood sugar monitoring and lipid profiles—along with a healthy lifestyle, starting from childhood, can help prevent cardiovascular diseases.”
His biggest warning? “Excessive alcohol weakens the heart, leading to heart failure.”
The Wake-Up Call You Can’t Ignore
India is in the middle of a heart disease crisis. While genetics play a role, the real enemy is poor lifestyle choices. Unhealthy eating, lack of exercise, high stress, and rising cases of diabetes and hypertension are putting young Indians at serious risk.
The silver lining? Small changes can save millions of lives. Start today—eat better, move more, manage stress, and keep an eye on your health. Your heart works tirelessly for you—it’s time to return the favor. A few small changes today can make all the difference for a healthier tomorrow.
