In today’s fitness era, everyone desires to look fit. Exercising in the gym and running at high speed on treadmill has become common in modern times. However, the most disheartening fact is that although many appear physically fit, they suddenly collapse due to cardiac arrest, losing their lives. Such incidents have become increasingly frequent in recent times.
This raises the question : why are these incidents happening? In India, coronary heart disease and heart blockages are very common. Indians are genetically three times more vulnerable to heart attack than Europeans. Compared to Europeans, Indians experience heart blockages at a much younger age. According to renowned heart surgeon Dr. Devi Prasad Shetty, in Europe, most heart patients are above 60 years old and retired individuals. But in India, the average age for undergoing heart surgery is between 45 and 50 years.
Sudden cardiac arrest can be completely prevented. Heart attacks are more common in men. For women, hormones provide natural protection until the age of 45. Nature favours protecting women over men. Therefore, men, especially those who engage in intense exercise, such as high-speed cardio in gyms where their heart rates reache 130-150bpm, must prioritize a heart health check-up.
The three essential tests for heart health are:
- ECG ( Electrocardiogram )
- Echocardiogram
- CT angiogram
These three tests can help prevent sudden cardiac arrests. Among these, the CT Angiogram is particularly effective as it functions like an X-ray and is completed within two minutes.
These tests can clearly detect issues such as heart blockages, thickened heart muscles ( Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy), or anomalies in coronary arteries. In some cases, if the coronary artery is on the wrong side, intense exercise can cause it to squeeze, leading to cardiac arrest.
By diagnosing these conditions early and receiving a clean bill of health, one can prevent future complications.
Therefore, everyone reading this article is encouraged to undergo these three tests and lead a healthy life. May 2025 be a year free from illness for you and your loved ones.
