Hospitalization during Covid, excessive alcohol consumption, excessive exercise within 48 hours of death, and changed food habits are some of the reasons behind the rise in cardiac arrest cases among individuals aged 18 to 45. The IMA Telangana analyzed cases from various states and identified factors contributing to the increase in cardiac arrests in this age group.
According to officials, a study conducted by the ICMR on sudden cardiac arrests among young people during Covid-19 revealed several risk factors. The analysis by IMA Telangana found that past Covid hospitalization, family history of sudden deaths, binge drinking, use of recreational drugs, and intense physical activity before death were factors associated with unexplained sudden deaths in adults aged 18-45.
Dr. Kiran Madhala, convener of the IMA Telangana scientific committee, emphasized that stress was a major contributing factor to cardiac arrests and needed to be addressed. Dr. Amarappa S Nagalikar from BIMS, Belgavi, highlighted the impact of changed food habits such as timing of food intake, increased consumption of refined and ready-to-eat foods, and decreased physical activity on cardiovascular health.
Dr. Mahananda Chaudhry emphasized the importance of regular moderate exercise for overall health and well-being. Experts recommended setting aside “ME TIME” each day for fitness, inner peace, and reflection to detach from material things.
Despite some limitations in the study, such as potential misclassification of cases or controls, the report noted that a significant portion of cases had better documentation of diagnosis or medical history due to being witnessed deaths. This facilitated subsequent review by clinicians at study sites.
