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Heart Attacks Surge: Government Lacks Central Data
3 Dec
Summary
- Government admits no central data maintained for heart attack cases.
- ICMR study links heart attacks in youth to comorbidities and smoking.
- National health programs aim to prevent and control non-communicable diseases.
The government has informed Parliament that it does not maintain central data on heart attack cases. An Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) study, conducted across 25 hospitals, revealed that acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in young adults (18-45 years) is associated with pre-existing comorbidities, a family history of thrombotic events, and a history of smoking. This study provides crucial insights into the growing concern of heart attacks among younger populations.
To address cardiovascular diseases, the National Health Mission implements the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD). This program has established numerous district NCD clinics, community health center clinics, and cardiac care units. Furthermore, a population-based initiative targets individuals over 30 years for screening of common non-communicable diseases, including diabetes and hypertension, as part of comprehensive primary healthcare.
The government is also enhancing acute cardiac event management through a hub-and-spoke model, equipping district hospitals and health centers for initial treatment while tertiary centers offer advanced interventions. Initiatives like the Eat Right India and Fit India movements, alongside insurance schemes like PM-JAY and affordable medicine programs, aim to reduce risk factors and improve patient access to treatment and medication.
