In a troubling new trend, health experts are warning that a sharp rise in heart-related deaths in India—particularly among young adults—may be traced to a deadly combination of genetic factors, binge drinking, high stress, lack of sleep, and poor lifestyle choices.
Speaking to the media, Dr. Rajiv Bhal, Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research, highlighted that “about 20% of the heart-related deaths in India are because of certain genes,” illustrating the significant role that heredity plays in heart disease. However, experts caution that inheriting risky genes is just one part of the problem; modern lifestyle habits are rapidly escalating the danger.
The rise in heart ailments has also been linked to patterns of binge drinking—rapidly consuming large amounts of alcohol—alongside growing stress levels, long working hours, and insufficient rest. Such factors contribute to conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and obesity, which are recognized risk factors for heart attacks and related complications.
Experts urge that awareness, routine health screenings, and lifestyle modifications, including a balanced diet, adequate sleep, stress management, and limiting alcohol consumption, are key to reversing this worrying surge in fatalities.
“There is an urgent need to address both genetic predispositions and modifiable lifestyle risks to curb the rising toll of heart disease in India,” Dr. Bhal asserted.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Readers are advised to consult qualified healthcare professionals for personalized guidance and treatment.
Reference: For more details, see Nagaland Post, “Genes, binge drinking, stress behind surging heart-related deaths,” August 16, 2025.