Pune, Sep 28 :Indians are being affected by Coronary Artery Disease 10 years ahead of their western counterparts, stated renowned Epidemiologist Dr Naresh Purohit here today.
Talking to UNI on the eve of World Heart Day, Academy of Cardiovascular Sciences Executive Member Dr Purohit stated, “Today, 7 per cent of youngsters (between the age of 25 -35 years), 12-15 per cent of non-Diabetic and 21 per cent Diabetic young Indians (between 35-60 years) are diagnosed with Coronary Artery Disease. This is attributed to physical inactivity, wrong dietary choices like high intake of junk foods, carbohydrates and oily foods, excessive smoking (75 per cent), alcohol consumption, substance abuse, and high stress due to poor work-life balance.”
Sharing his concern over the increasesd prevalance of heart diseases, he further said, “Heart diseases claim millions of lives every year across the globe – the deadliest killer being heart attacks. On one hand where more millennials are making their switch to a healthier life – a more fitness-centric approach to their ways. And on the other, many still find themselves in the clutches of chain smoking, alcoholism, sedentary lifestyle and obesity.”

“In such a scenario, barely does one realise how such habits could increase their risk of chronic conditions of the heart that may even end in a heart attack,” pointed out Dr Purohit also the Principal Investigator for Association of Studies for Cardiac Care.
He explained, “Genetics has been a leading cause of heart attacks. However, it all happens due to plaque build-up in the arteries due to bad cholesterol levels, narrowing of blood vessels and hypertention. Those men who aren’t emotionally expressive can be doing themselves more harm than good.”
Citing his recent study published in the Journal Heart, Dr Purohit who is also Executive Member of the Indian Society of Hypertension told, “There is a link between hostility and repressed anger and cardiovascular disease in men. The role of anger and hostility in cardiovascular disorder is that anger and hostility can increase the heart rate and blood pressure, and over time, can damage the coronary artery wall and accelerate coronary artery dysfunction. In addition to potential physiological processes associated with hostility, it may impair certain behaviours such as smoking, eating a high-fat diet, and contraction of coronary artery function.”
He advised, “Prevention of heart disease should start from childhood and be supplemented by regular cardiac screening in schools and colleges every 3 -4 years; regular physical exercise programs in schools, colleges and workplaces is a must; an active yoga session can be conducted daily. Reduction of sugar intake, carbonated drinks and salt (sodium) in foods is absolutely essential.”(UNI)