Should we really be worried about rising heart attacks in Karnataka?
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Synopsis
Karnataka's Minister Sharanaprakash R. Patil addresses rising heart attack concerns, emphasizing preventive lifestyle changes and the establishment of super-specialty hospitals to improve healthcare access. Find out what he had to say about public fear and the facts surrounding heart health.
Key Takeaways
- Stay calm amidst rising heart attack concerns.
- Adopt a healthier lifestyle to reduce risks.
- Super-specialty hospitals are being established statewide.
- Statistics show no significant rise in heart-related cases.
- Public fears are largely unfounded, as confirmed by experts.
Bengaluru, Aug 18 (NationPress) Karnataka's Minister of Medical Education and Skill Development, Sharanaprakash R. Patil, has urged the residents of the state to remain calm amid concerns regarding the increasing number of heart attack cases.
He pointed out that adopting a healthier lifestyle—incorporating regular exercise, pranayama, a nutritious diet, adequate sleep, and effective stress management—can significantly reduce the risk of such health complications.
In response to a query from Congress member Dinesh Gooligowda during a legislative council session, Patil noted that despite rising worries, current statistics do not indicate a major surge in heart-related issues compared to prior years.
“On average, 5 to 6 percent of cases are heart-related, and this year's numbers remain consistent. Isolated incidents should not instigate undue fear,” he clarified.
He elaborated that factors such as a sedentary lifestyle, stress, obesity, alcohol use, smoking, drug abuse, and family history are significant contributors to heart diseases. He dismissed claims connecting post-COVID effects to heart attacks, asserting, “There is no evidence supporting such a link.”
A committee led by Dr. K.S. Ravindranath, director of the Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, along with a task force from the health department, has confirmed that the public's fears are largely unfounded, he stated.
Minister Patil also announced that the government has mandated the setup of super-specialty hospitals in all district government hospitals. “Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has ordered the establishment of these facilities, and many districts have already begun operations. Trauma centres will also be launched alongside,” he added.
Currently, super-specialty hospitals are operational at Jayadeva Institutes in Bengaluru, Mysuru, Kalaburagi, and Hubballi. New facilities in Bagalkote, Yadgir, and Raichur will open soon, and units in Bidar, Koppal, and Belagavi are expected to be inaugurated in the next three months, Patil stated.
On July 7, the Karnataka Health Department classified sudden heart attack deaths among individuals under 45 as 'notifiable' following recommendations from the expert committee investigating the relationship between COVID-19 vaccinations and sudden cardiovascular events.
Point of View
It's vital to provide accurate information to the public. The reassurance from Minister Patil reflects a commitment to addressing health concerns responsibly. The establishment of super-specialty hospitals is a proactive step toward enhancing healthcare access and managing heart health effectively in Karnataka. The community's well-being remains a priority, and it's essential to focus on preventive measures.
NationPress
09/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What should people do to prevent heart attacks?
People can prevent heart attacks by adopting a healthier lifestyle, which includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, stress management, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
Is there a significant increase in heart attack cases in Karnataka?
Statistics indicate that there has been no significant increase in heart-related cases compared to previous years, as stated by Minister Patil.
What role do super-speciality hospitals play?
Super-speciality hospitals provide advanced medical care for heart conditions, ensuring timely and effective treatment for patients across the state.
