Rons Bantwal
Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Sep 29: World Heart Day is observed every year on September 29, with the World Heart Federation announcing a special theme annually to raise awareness on heart diseases. This year’s theme, “Don’t Miss a Beat,” highlights the importance of not neglecting heart care.
Senior cardiologist of K J Somaiya Hospital and Research Centre and Somaiya Super Specialty Hospital, Dr Sadanand R Shetty, said that heart attacks do not occur suddenly. “The body gives warning signs in advance, but many people ignore them, leading to serious complications as early as in their 30s and 40s. Recognising warning symptoms and consulting a doctor without delay is vital,” he stressed.
K J Somaiya Hospital and Research Centre, in association with Somaiya Trust, observed World Heart Day on Monday morning at the Heart Care Kiosk, Somaiya Ayurvihar, Sion Eastern Express. Outlook Best Doctors awardee, senior cardiologist Dr Sadanand Shetty, delivered the keynote, emphasising that today’s lifestyle, stress, unhealthy diet, lack of regular exercise, smoking, and inadequate sleep are major causes of heart disease, particularly among the younger generation. He underlined the need to take preventive measures to protect heart health.
Renowned musician Sukhwinder Singh was the guest of honour, who inaugurated the event by lighting the lamp and spreading a message of wellness through his music.
Somaiya Trust secretary Lt Gen H S Kahlon, in his introductory remarks, noted that earlier longevity was considered a given, but now even living into the sixties is seen as a bonus, owing to drastic lifestyle changes, particularly unhealthy eating habits. This, he said, has led to the rise of diseases that were rare in the past.
At the Somaiya Hospital premises, dignitaries were welcomed at the Heart Care Kiosk, after which a brief gathering was held in the auditorium. CEO Lt Gen H S Kahlon welcomed the guests, while Dr Manisha Bobade proposed the vote of thanks.
On the occasion, both Sukhwinder Singh and Dr Sadanand Shetty were felicitated. Senior and junior doctors, officials, medical students, and staff of Somaiya Hospital attended. As part of the event, free health screenings including blood tests, blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes check-ups were conducted.