Dhanbad: In an effort to raise awareness about heart health, the Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines), Dhanbad, organized an insightful session on “Heart Disease and Its Prevention” at the New Academic Complex. The event aimed to educate students, faculty, staff, and their families about recognizing the early signs of heart disease and adopting preventive measures.
Dr. Suraj H. Chavan, a leading cardiologist from Asarfi Hospital, Dhanbad, conducted the session under the leadership of Dr. Praveen Kumar, CMO (IC), Health Centre, IIT (ISM). The session was graced by the presence of key dignitaries, including Prof. Sukumar Mishra, Director of IIT (ISM); Prof. Dheeraj Kumar, Deputy Director; Prof. Rajni Singh, Dean of Corporate Communications; Shri Prabodh Pandey, Registrar; as well as several Heads of Departments and faculty members.
During his address, Dr. Chavan dispelled common myths surrounding heart conditions and explained the differences between Heart Failure, Heart Attack, and Cardiac Arrest. He clarified that while Heart Failure involves the heart’s inability to pump sufficient blood, a Heart Attack results from a severe reduction in blood supply to the heart muscles, and Cardiac Arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating.
Dr. Chavan also discussed the causes of Sudden Cardiac Death, attributing it to conditions such as Ischemic Heart Disease, Non-Ischemic Structural Heart Disease, and Channelopathies, among others. He highlighted the risk factors for Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), noting both non-modifiable factors (age, gender, and family history) and modifiable ones (hypertension, diabetes, obesity, smoking, physical inactivity, and unhealthy diets). He emphasized that individuals with diabetes are at a significantly higher risk for CAD, experiencing more severe complications and higher mortality rates.
Obesity, Dr. Chavan pointed out, is another major contributor to CAD, with elevated BMI accounting for millions of global deaths, particularly due to cardiovascular diseases. In terms of diagnosis, he emphasized the importance of comprehensive tests like lipid profiling, ECG, ECHO, and Angiography for detecting CAD.
In conclusion, Dr. Chavan urged the attendees to adopt a heart-healthy diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and fish to reduce the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). The session ended with a lively Q&A session, where participants had the opportunity to engage with Dr. Chavan and gain valuable insights on maintaining a healthy heart.
