Young, busy, and at risk: Why India's heart crisis is no longer an 'over-50' problem
ETimes February 26, 2026 11:40 PM
Cardiology, as we are all aware, is the branch of medicine that deals with the heart and blood vessels. It studies how the heart works, what goes wrong, and how those problems can be treated or prevented. In India, heart disease is no longer rare or limited to older age. It has become one of the leading causes of death across cities and small towns alike.
India’s doctor-to-patient ratio stands at 1:834, better than the WHO’s suggested 1:1000. Yet numbers alone do not tell the full story. Access to quality care, cost of treatment, shortage of facilities in smaller towns, and simple lack of awareness often delay diagnosis. Many families recognise heart disease only after a crisis strikes. That delay increases both emotional and financial strain.
To address this growing gap, The Times of India brings back
Medithon with a focused cardiology edition titled “ ”, scheduled for 28 February. The aim is clear: bridge the distance between doctors and the public, and turn complex heart science into practical understanding.
In a country where many still depend on word-of-mouth advice or late emergency visits, such forums matter. Reliable information can prevent panic, reduce myths, and encourage timely check-ups. When experts sit together and speak in plain language, the fear around heart disease slowly reduces.
This Cardio Medithon 3 brings together some of the country’s leading heart specialists to discuss prevention, recovery, women’s heart health, and the growing risk among younger generations.
Beyond the Obvious: What Every Woman Should KnowHeart disease in women often goes unnoticed. Symptoms can be subtle. Fatigue, mild breathlessness, or discomfort in the jaw are sometimes dismissed as stress.
This session which starts from 11am, features:
Dr Shibba Takkar Chhabra, Professor, Department of Cardiology, Dayanand Medical College, Ludhiana, and Director, WINCARS Association
Dr Zakia Khan, Head of Department of Cardiology, Fortis Hospital, Kalyan, Mumbai
The discussion will focus on gender-specific risk factors, hormonal changes, and why women are often underdiagnosed. The goal is to move beyond textbook symptoms and bring attention to real-life warning signs. Women’s heart health deserves its own spotlight, and this panel promises exactly that.
Recovering After a Heart AttackSurviving a heart attack is only the first step. Recovery is long, structured, and deeply personal. Many patients feel physically stable but emotionally anxious. Fear of another attack often lingers.
This panel which begins from 12pm, includes:
Dr (Prof.) C.M. Nagesh, Senior Interventional Cardiologist, Founder & Director, Cardea Superspeciality Hospital, Jayanagar, Bengaluru
Dr Tahsin Neduvanchery, Senior Consultant Interventional Cardiologist, Aster MIMS Hospital, Kottakkal, Kerala
The focus will be on rehabilitation, lifestyle correction, medication adherence, and realistic timelines for returning to normal life. Recovery is not just about procedures. It is about rebuilding confidence, stamina, and routine.
Young Hearts at Risk: Gen Z and Generation AlphaHeart disease is no longer confined to middle age. Sedentary habits, processed food, rising stress, and screen-heavy lifestyles are reshaping risk patterns.
Experts speaking in this session are:
Dr P. B. Jayagopal, MD, DM, DNB, Director, HOD & Senior Interventional Cardiologist, Lakshmi Hospital, Palakkad, Kerala
Dr Sarat Chandra, MD, DM (Cardiology), Chairman, Jayanthi Superspeciality Hospital, Hyderabad; Former Editor, Indian Heart Journal; Former President, Cardiological Society of India
Dr Anil Mishra, Senior Interventional Cardiologist & Medical Director, B.M. Birla Heart Research Centre, Kolkata
The discussion will examine early warning signs, genetic factors, obesity trends, and preventive screening in younger populations. The message is clear: prevention must begin early. Waiting until the forties is no longer safe.
Prevention First: The Most Powerful TreatmentPrevention remains the strongest tool against heart disease. Small daily habits shape long-term outcomes.
This final panel brings together:
Dr Dhiman Kahali, DM, Director of Interventional Cardiology, B.M. Birla Heart Research Centre, Kolkata
Dr Bagirath Raghuraman, MD, DNB, DM Cardiology, Senior Consultant Cardiologist & Director, Heart Transplant, Narayana Institute of Cardiac Sciences, Bangalore
Dr Rajiv D Karnik, MD, DM (Cardiology), Interventional Cardiologist, Fortis Hospital; Teaching Faculty, Asian Heart Institute, Mumbai
The session will focus on early screenings, blood pressure control, diabetes management, and timely medical consultation. Preventing heart disease does not demand dramatic change. It requires consistent awareness and action.
Amazing Heart, Amazing LifeWhen the heart functions well, life flows smoothly. When it falters, every aspect of living is affected.
India’s healthcare system continues to evolve, but awareness must evolve faster. Events like Medithon create space for dialogue that is honest and practical. Heart disease does not begin in the ICU. It often begins quietly, years earlier.
