On the occasion of World Heart Day, HCMCT Manipal Hospital, Dwarka (A multi-specialty facility) organised a canvas painting session for all on the theme “All About Heart Health”. The participants painted on a canvas of 20×6 feet. When we speak of heart health, we often picture older people. Studies, unfortunately, show that Indians are at risk of heart disease at least a decade earlier than western counterparts. This means there is an increasing prevalence of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in people as young as 30. India already accounts for one-fifth of deaths worldwide, caused by cardiovascular diseases. And this reflects in the younger population as well, with an age-standardized death rate of 272 per 1,00,000 population as compared to the global average of 235. 

The aim of this canvas painting was to encourage the residents of Dwarka and near-by areas to motivate and indulge into routine screening of heart and raise awareness on how cardio-vascular diseases are on risen among younger population and how one can keep their heart healthy following a balanced lifestyle. Factors like sedentary lifestyle, stress and anxiety, smoking, alcohol consumption are further aggravating heart problems. It is advisable to take proper care of the heart and follow a strict regime. 

Commenting on the event, Dr Bipin Kumar Dubey, HOD And Consultant – Cardiac Science, said, “Raising public awareness around cardiovascular diseases and their prevention is now more significant than ever. So, let’s all come together to unite against the risk of heart diseases and understand the importance of a healthy heart and emphasize on keeping your heart healthy with heart heathy choices. This World Heart Day, we should promise ourselves to follow proper diet, have an active lifestyle and eat a balanced and nourished diet”.

Adding to this, Dr Samanjoy Mukherjee, Consultant – Senior Interventional Cardiologist, Cardiac Science said, “Today heart diseases are common across all age groups including people in their 30s or 40s. Primary reasons are stress, lack of exercise, and unhealthy food habits apart from excessive smoking and drinking. Indians experience heart failures early and therefore it is recommended to modify one’s lifestyle at a young age. Keeping cholesterol levels under check and undergoing regular health checks are a key to a quality life”.