Heart Attacks Now Year-Round in Kashmir, Doctors Warn on World Heart Day

SRINAGAR: Heart attacks and strokes are no longer confined to winter in Jammu and Kashmir, as such cases are now being reported throughout the year, with young people also falling victim, doctors said on the occasion of World Heart Day.

They said urbanisation, sedentary lifestyles, fast food consumption, stress, and uncontrolled hypertension and diabetes are the main reasons.

Cardiologists from leading tertiary healthcare institutions in the valley said, the number of cardiac emergencies has almost doubled in the last five years, and it is increasing with each passing year.

The rise is evident from the sharp increase in stent procedures and pacemaker implantations being carried out at hospitals such as SKIMS, SMHS and other hospitals, they said.

Dr Ashraf Mir, a cardiologist at a tertiary care hospital in Srinagar, said that not only has the volume of cases risen, but the very pattern of heart attacks has changed.

“Earlier, we would see far fewer cases in summer compared to winter, but now heart attacks are reported across all seasons. What is more worrying is the growing number of young patients—something we rarely encountered two decades ago,” he said.

According to him, pollution, drug abuse, unhealthy diets, and lack of exercise are all fueling hypertension and diabetes, which act as precursors to heart attacks.

“Today, the comfort-driven culture—online deliveries, work-from-home setups, and lack of physical activity—is pushing people into a sedentary lifestyle. This, combined with stress and substance abuse, is worsening the situation,” Dr Mir said, adding, “Even college-going girls have been diagnosed with heart conditions linked to drug abuse and Endocarditis, which was once rare in our region.”

Dr Showkat, another cardiologist, said that mental health is playing a key role in this crisis. “The socio-political climate, economic burdens, and competitive lifestyles are elevating stress levels. Stress is directly linked with high blood pressure, inflammation, and unhealthy coping mechanisms like smoking, excessive caffeine, or binge-eating,” he said.

He said many young professionals and students complain of anxiety and hypertension, which has led to an alarming rise in stress-related cardiac problems.

Doctors said that while medical facilities are improving, prevention remains the best cure.

The measures they suggested include: Engage in at least 30 minutes of physical exercise daily—walking, cycling, yoga, or sports, opt for a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and nuts, avoid processed and fast foods high in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats, regularly monitor blood pressure, sugar, and cholesterol levels.

The medical professionals called for seeking timely treatment for diabetes and hypertension and quitting smoking and alcohol, saying both significantly damage blood vessels and raise the risk of heart disease.

“Practise mindfulness, meditation, or relaxation techniques, ensuring good sleep and mental health support is equally important,” they said, adding that obesity increases the risk of hypertension and diabetes, which are key drivers of heart attacks.

According to experts, families, schools, and community bodies should encourage heart-friendly practices and discourage harmful habits like drug abuse.

Doctors also advised people to be alert to warning signs: chest pain or discomfort—described as pressure, squeezing, or tightness—radiating to the arm, back, jaw, or upper stomach is the most common symptom. Other signs include shortness of breath, sudden dizziness, cold sweat, fatigue, nausea, or indigestion-like discomfort.

“Immediate medical attention can save lives. Delayed treatment reduces survival chances drastically,” the doctors added.

As heart disease continues to rise across Jammu and Kashmir, experts warned that the region is facing a “silent epidemic”. They said while hospitals are better equipped now than in the past, the real battle must be fought at home—through lifestyle changes, community support, and stress management—(KNO)