Rising heart ailments in Himachal

Shimla: The young population of Himachal Pradesh is having heart ailments at an alarming rate says a leading heart specialist.

Sharing his insights into the prevalence of heart disease in the hill state, Dr T S Mahant said Saturday that unhealthy diets and tobacco consumption were the major reasons for declining cardiac health in the state.

He claimed advancements in medical technology and clinical expertise have made heart surgery safer, reducing mortality.

But cautioned correct diagnosis, early and timely surgery are key to saving lives.

“I’ve treated many patients from Himachal who are in their early 20s but have developed cardiac ailments due to a diet high in red meat, tobacco and alcohol.”

He added that people of the hill state also consume a diet high in sugar and desi ghee, another factor causing health problems.