Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi
Udupi, July 6: Public awareness about heart health is increasing across Udupi district, with a notable rise in people undergoing ECG (Electrocardiogram) tests, especially in rural areas. Between January and June this year, a total of 5,196 individuals underwent ECG screenings in district and taluk government hospitals.
According to health officials, June saw a slight increase in the number of people seeking heart checkups compared to May. This trend is being observed not just in government facilities but also in private hospitals. Patients with gastric issues, high blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol problems, or even mild anxiety are proactively opting for health screenings.
A total of 71 deaths due to heart attacks were reported in this six-month period. Doctors are advising those with symptoms to adopt healthier lifestyles—such as regular walking, exercise, yoga, and dietary changes. Medication and further treatment are provided based on individual needs.
Rural participation increases
Interestingly, rural areas recorded more ECG tests than urban centres. In June alone, 359 people underwent ECGs at the Udupi District Hospital, 344 in Karkala Government Hospital, and 268 in Kundapur. Earlier, rural residents would often avoid screenings due to lack of facilities or long travel distances. However, thanks to active awareness campaigns by health workers visiting homes, this hesitation is gradually decreasing.
More people taking health seriously
Public concern about health has increased significantly. From January to June, 2,098 people took ECG tests in the district hospital, 1,502 in Kundapur, and 1,596 in Karkala. Of these, 15–20 individuals were diagnosed with heart conditions. Doctors believe the numbers could be higher when including tests conducted in private hospitals.
Heart-related deaths reported
According to district surgeon Dr Ashok, 16 heart-related deaths were reported at the district hospital from January to June. Some victims had a history of alcohol consumption, while most were over the age of 50. Additional fatalities were reported across primary health centres: Brahmavar (8), Kota (5), Shirva (4), Kundapur (12), Karkala (6), Nitte (12), and Hebri (8). Most of these were not sudden cardiac arrests but rather deaths linked to other underlying heart complications.
Rising ECG tests for mild symptoms
Patients are increasingly coming in with common symptoms and undergoing ECGs to rule out heart-related issues. Doctors are offering all necessary treatments and referring serious cases for advanced care. Sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy eating habits are also contributing factors, said district health officer Dr Basavaraj Hubballi.