Chandigarh, — In a major move toward promoting cardiovascular health and preventive care, the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, has launched a specialized preventive clinic within its Cardiology OPD complex. The new clinic, inaugurated on Saturday, is designed to help health-conscious adults minimize their risk of heart disease through early intervention and personalized guidance.
The inauguration was led by Prof. Vivek Lal, Director of PGIMER, who shared his personal commitment to health and emphasized the critical role of preventive measures. “By focusing on weight management and incorporating physical activities like cycling and yoga into our daily routines, we can effectively ward off many lifestyle diseases,” he remarked. “Health is a lifelong journey, and I encourage everyone to make it a priority.”
Comprehensive Services and Individualized Care
The preventive clinic aims to offer a complete health assessment to each visitor, including evaluations of diet, physical activity, and psychological well-being. Dr. Neelam, Associate Professor and head of the clinic, elaborated on the services provided. “This clinic is designed for individuals who want to stay proactive about their heart health. Each visitor will receive a comprehensive assessment, and based on the results, we’ll offer tailored advice to help them maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle.”
The clinic will be open every Wednesday and Saturday from 9 to 10 a.m., allowing easy access for those committed to managing their heart health before issues arise.
Addressing the Mental Health Link
Dr. Krishan from PGIMER’s Department of Psychiatry emphasized the strong connection between mental health and heart disease, highlighting the clinic’s commitment to addressing psychological factors. “Mental stress and psychological issues are well-documented contributors to heart disease. Our clinic aims to tackle these aspects head-on, providing proactive mental health support to reduce stress and improve heart health,” he said.
Focus on Heart-Healthy Nutrition
Diet plays a crucial role in cardiovascular health, and Dr. Nancy Sahni, Chief Dietician at PGIMER, spoke about the importance of balanced nutrition in preventing heart disease. “Heart health is significantly influenced by dietary choices. Our team will work with patients to create sustainable nutrition plans that support heart health and are easy to incorporate into everyday life,” Dr. Sahni shared.
To further promote awareness, the clinic has developed an informational booklet on heart disease prevention. This resource, available to patients and their families, offers guidance on essential lifestyle modifications, dietary practices, and mental wellness tips.
A Holistic Approach to Heart Health
The new preventive clinic is part of PGIMER’s broader commitment to a holistic approach to healthcare, combining expert medical guidance with practical lifestyle changes that promote long-term well-being.