Praja Arogya Vedika organised a health seminar in Vijayawada on Sunday (February 22), where medical experts voiced concern over the rising incidence of heart ailments among youngsters and stressed the need for preventive care.

Cardiologist A. Purnanand said heart problems, once largely confined to the elderly, are now increasingly being detected in the youth. He attributed the trend to lifestyle changes, unhealthy food habits, mounting mental stress and addictions such as alcohol and smoking. He noted that cardiac cases have also risen significantly after the Covid 19 pandemic.

Dr. Purnanand pointed out that nearly 80% of heart diseases can be prevented through a healthy lifestyle. He advised those with high blood pressure and diabetes to undergo regular cardiac check-ups. A balanced diet, at least one hour of daily exercise, adequate sleep and maintaining healthy family and social relationships are essential to keep heart ailments at bay, he said, adding that proper mental and physical relaxation is equally important.

He urged people to pay attention to warning symptoms and seek timely medical intervention. The doctor later clarified doubts raised by participants.

A book authored by Dr. Purnanand on heart health and ways to keep the heart fit was unveiled by Chadalavada Bhanu Prasad, founder of Save Young Heart Foundation and Kiran Teja Charitable Trust.

Mr. Bhanu Prasad said the foundation has been conducting free heart screening camps for people aged 30 to 45 years to facilitate early detection and save lives. He said a screening camp was organised in collaboration with Praja Arogya Vedika and similar initiatives would continue in the future.

Praja Arogya Vedika State president M. V. Ramanayya, NTR district president G. Vijay Prakash and others participated. About 500 people attended the seminar.