Sidharth Shukla to Vikas Sethi: What's Causing Heart-Related Deaths Among Youngsters?

Bollywood has seen a troubling trend of heart-related deaths among its younger stars, reflecting a broader health crisis affecting many young people today. Notably, actor Sidharth Shukla passed away from a heart attack in September 2022 at the age of 40. This incident highlighted a growing concern about the increasing incidence of heart disease among younger individuals.

Rising cases of heart-linked deaths in Bollywood

That same year, the music industry also mourned the loss of Krishnakumar Kunnat, known as KK, who died of a heart attack shortly after performing at a concert in Kolkata. Initially mistaking his chest pain for acidity, KK was rushed to the hospital, but unfortunately, it was too late.

Adding to this alarming trend, actor Vikas Sethi recently passed away from a heart attack. According to his wife, Jhanvi Sethi, the couple was in Nashik for a family event when Vikas fell ill with vomiting and diarrhea. Despite their attempts to avoid a hospital visit by calling a doctor to their home, Vikas was found deceased in his sleep. The doctor confirmed the cause as cardiac arrest.

What is driving this alarming rise in heart disease among younger people? 

The World Economic Forum reports that 50 per cent of young deaths are now due to diabetes and heart disease. This shift indicates that heart problems are no longer confined to older age groups but are increasingly affecting younger individuals.

Several factors contribute to this troubling trend. A sedentary lifestyle, poor management of diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol and triglycerides, and chronic stress are prevalent among people in their 20s, 30s, and 40s. Contrary to popular belief, merely maintaining a muscular physique or regular gym attendance does not guarantee cardiovascular health. Lifestyle disorders, inadequate or excessive physical activity, and high stress levels can still lead to heart disease.

Furthermore, unhealthy practices such as insufficient sleep, alcohol consumption, smoking, excessive supplement use, and over-exercising can significantly impact heart health. Addressing these issues and adopting a balanced lifestyle is crucial to preventing heart disease and ensuring overall well-being.