'Three-fold spike in heart diseases among Delhiites'

NEW DELHI: A survey has revealed a three-fold rise in cardiovascular disease (CVD) among residents of Delhi over the last three years.

The survey by Indus Health Plus further reported that the risk of heart attack and stroke is increased if a person suffers from diabetes and obesity.

In the study, about 40 per cent of men and 38 per cent of women in the age group of 40-50 years tested positive for diabetes, increasing their chances of heart ailments. Of these, 20 per cent men and 22 per cent women were obese too.

According to Amol Naikawadi, Preventive Healthcare Specialist, "In Delhi, young working women in the age group of 25-35 years are prone to heart diseases due to lack of estrogen."

He added that prolonged intake of painkillers, hormonal and contraceptive pills can cause clotting of blood in the arteries. This, coupled with unhealthy lifestyle and stress, increases the risk of heart diseases.

The survey revealed that over 50 per cent of corporate employees (both men and women) suffer from hypertension and heart ailments. Additionally, more than 70 per cent of urban men and 69 per cent of rural men in the 35-55 years age group are under the risk of heart diseases due to hypertension, obesity and diabetes.

Surprisingly, 60 per cent of urban as well as rural women in the age group of 25-30 years are ignorant about heart ailments.

The survey also highlights that air pollution (caused by industries, vehicles, etc) is at an all-time high in Delhi, leading to rise in heart diseases.

Children and elderly in urban areas suffer most due to air pollution. Moreover, the population under 30 is at higher risk of heart diseases, due to unhealthy lifestyle, stress, smoking and drinking.

"Day-to-day lifestyle modifications and changes like jogging, stair climbing, healthy eating or playing outdoors will help reduce the risk of heart ailments," Naikawadi added.