Medanta MD Dr. Naresh Trehan explains Sudden Cardiac Deaths in India

Varanasi. Medanta Managing Director Dr. Naresh Trehan on Tuesday said that heart attacks are more common in India than abroad due to a number of factors, including family history, diabetes, and a sedentary lifestyle.

Speaking at a press conference in Varanasi, Dr. Trehan said that people with a family history of heart attacks are twice as likely to develop the condition, while those with diabetes are three times more likely. He added that a sedentary lifestyle, which is characterized by a lack of physical activity, is also a major risk factor for heart disease.

"We have to keep in mind that there is a tendency in India, in our blood, in our genes, to have more heart disease and at a younger age," Dr. Trehan said.

He also warned that people who have had Covid-19 are at an increased risk of developing heart disease, as the virus can cause inflammation inside the heart.

Dr. Trehan stressed the importance of early detection and treatment of heart disease, saying that early intervention can save lives. He urged people to get regular checkups, even if they feel healthy, and to make lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking.

In response to a question about the opening of a Medanta hospital in Varanasi, Dr. Trehan said that the matter is under consideration. He said that the hospital chain is looking at expanding its presence in Uttar Pradesh and that Varanasi is a potential location for a new hospital.