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Hassan, Karnataka – A government-commissioned investigation into recent deaths in Hassan district has found no evidence of a sudden rise in heart attack fatalities, despite widespread public concern and media reports suggesting otherwise.
The expert committee, led by Dr. C N Ravindranath of the Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Research, analyzed 24 deaths that occurred in May and June 2025. Of these, 14 were individuals under 45 years old. The study determined that four deaths were non-cardiac (due to kidney disease, accidents, infection, and electrocution), while 10 were confirmed cardiac deaths and another 10 classified as probable cardiac deaths based on symptoms and risk factors.
The report found that the deaths were scattered, not clustered, and that over 75% of cases had known cardiac risk profiles such as obesity, diabetes, smoking, hypertension, and alcohol use. Notably, some younger adults who died had no prior history of heart disease, highlighting the growing burden of premature cardiovascular disease in the region.
Comparing this year’s data to the same period in 2024, investigators found no significant increase in cardiac deaths in Hassan. Trends in other districts like Bengaluru, Mysuru, and Kalaburagi were also stable or slightly declining.
However, the report flagged challenges in establishing exact causes of death, citing limited post-mortem examinations, missing clinical records, and incomplete cooperation from some families. These limitations made it difficult to confirm the precise nature of several cases.
In response to the findings, Karnataka’s health department is preparing to launch a cardiac screening initiative for young people and high-risk groups. Plans include equipping local health centers with ECG machines, expanding the Hridaya Jyothi scheme, and introducing CPR training in schools, gyms, and public venues. Special heart check-ups for auto-rickshaw and cab drivers are also being considered.
Officials emphasized that these measures are not related to Covid-19, but are part of a broader strategy to address cardiovascular risk and improve emergency response across the state.
“Deaths reported were scattered, not clustered, and most were explainable by known cardiac risk profiles in more than 75% patients,” the study observed.
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This article is based on the findings of an expert committee report commissioned by the Karnataka government and statements from health officials as of July 2025. The information provided reflects current knowledge and available data but may be subject to revision as further investigations and public health initiatives progress. Readers are advised to consult healthcare professionals for individual medical advice.
