Heart Attacks in Young Individuals: Dr. Devi Prasad Shetty Highlights Key Health Concerns at BT MindRush 2025
Regular Health Check-ups Crucial to Prevent Sudden Cardiac Arrests, Says Dr. Shetty
At the BT MindRush 2025 event, renowned cardiac surgeon Dr. Devi Prasad Shetty emphasized that sudden heart attacks are rarely without warning—there is always an underlying issue that remains undiagnosed. Addressing the alarming rise in heart attacks among young individuals, Dr. Shetty underscored the importance of routine health monitoring to detect hidden risks early.
“Nobody with a completely normal heart experiences a sudden cardiac arrest. There is always an undiagnosed problem beneath the surface,” he stated. Urging people to be proactive, Dr. Shetty stressed that simply feeling fit does not guarantee good health. “The only way to protect yourself is to be aware of your vital health numbers—blood pressure, cholesterol, kidney function, and overall heart health.”
Citing data from professional sports, he pointed out the hidden dangers of cardiac issues even in seemingly healthy athletes. “If you search ‘FIFA cardiac arrest,’ you will find reports stating that 617 footballers have suffered cardiac arrests in the last four years during practice sessions. The actual number could be ten times higher,” he warned.
To combat this issue, Dr. Shetty advocated for routine screenings, including ECGs, echocardiograms, and CT angiograms. “These tests take less than 30 minutes but can be lifesaving by detecting heart diseases early,” he noted.
India on Track to Revolutionize Affordable Healthcare
Dr. Shetty also shared his vision for India’s healthcare future, predicting that the country will become a global leader in affordable medical care.
“In the next 5 to 10 years, access to quality healthcare in India will not be dictated by financial status. The wealth of a nation or family will have no bearing on the standard of healthcare,” he asserted.
He highlighted India’s success in cataract surgeries as an example of how entrepreneurial healthcare initiatives have transformed accessibility. “India performs 8.5 million cataract surgeries annually—more than the combined total of the US, China, and much of Europe. This has been possible due to the innovation and entrepreneurship of doctors,” Dr. Shetty explained.
10,000 Steps a Day: The Key to Longevity
Exercise and diet remain fundamental to overall health, according to Dr. Shetty, who identified obesity as a pressing concern. He urged people to prioritize lifestyle modifications before considering medical interventions.
“You are what you eat. Indians, unfortunately, lack discipline when it comes to exercise,” he observed.
Recommending at least 10,000 daily steps for better heart, kidney, liver, and brain health, Dr. Shetty noted that this simple habit could significantly increase longevity. “Even small changes, like using earphones and walking while talking on the phone, can add 2,000 extra steps daily.”
However, he cautioned against excessive cardio workouts, advocating for a sustainable, long-term exercise routine instead.
Weight-Loss Drugs: Last Resort, Not a First Option
Discussing weight management, Dr. Shetty emphasized that diet and exercise should be the primary approach, with weight-loss drugs considered only when lifestyle changes fail.
“Everyone wants to lose weight, but the first step should always be proper diet and exercise. Medications should be a last resort and only under medical supervision,” he advised.
While acknowledging the effectiveness of weight-loss drugs for severe obesity, Dr. Shetty remarked, “These medications work like magic when used correctly. However, they should never replace a disciplined lifestyle.”
Concluding his session, Dr. Shetty reiterated the importance of a balanced approach to health, encompassing regular medical check-ups, mindful eating, exercise, and even spirituality. “More than anything else, be spiritual. A healthy mind leads to a healthy body,” he concluded.
