Hassan, Karnataka: A concerning rise in heart attack-related deaths has put Karnataka’s Hassan district under the spotlight, with 21 fatalities reported over just 40 days. Even more distressing is the trend that a large number of these victims were under the age of 45 — an age group not typically associated with fatal cardiac events.
On Monday alone, three more individuals lost their lives to sudden cardiac arrest:
Lepakshi (50) from JP Nagar in Belur collapsed after experiencing fatigue.
Professor Muttayya (58), an English lecturer from Holenarasipura, suffered a heart attack while sipping tea.
Kumar (57), a Group-D employee from Channarayapattana, passed away in hospital after complaining of chest pain on Sunday.
Disturbing Trend Among Youth
According to health department records, of the 21 heart attack deaths, five individuals were aged between 19 and 25, and eight were in the 25–45 age group. This has left the community shaken and has prompted deeper inquiries, especially since many of the victims reportedly had no prior major cardiac history.
Over the past two years, Hassan district recorded 507 heart attack cases, out of which 190 ended in death, underscoring the seriousness of the local health crisis.
Cardiac Centers Flooded With Patients
In the wake of these incidents, Jayadeva Hospital in Bengaluru has witnessed a spike in patients from Hassan and nearby areas. The outpatient department has reported an 8% rise in footfall, as more people rush for cardiac evaluations. Doctors at the hospital say the surge reflects widespread public concern and highlights the pressing need for preventive cardiac care in the region.
Government Steps In, Expert Panel Formed
Alarmed by the mortality pattern, the Karnataka Health Department has launched an official inquiry. A high-level committee led by Dr Ravindranath, Director of the Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Research, has been tasked with probing the deaths. The order came directly from Health Department Principal Secretary Harsh Gupta.
Preliminary data gathered from 18 of the 21 fatalities revealed that:
Nine victims were aged 55 or above and had co-morbid conditions.
Five deceased were in their twenties, including four who died in Bengaluru but were originally from Hassan.
Many deaths occurred at home, prompting officials to seek old health records for more clarity.
While some victims reportedly suffered from Type-1 diabetes and chronic illnesses, doctors are also exploring genetic predispositions affecting heart muscles in the local population. “We’ve asked for detailed reports to understand if genetic or other underlying factors are contributing to this pattern,” Gupta said.
Broader Investigation Underway
Originally created in February to explore links between post-Covid complications and heart-related issues, the committee’s scope has now been expanded. They are required to scrutinize all medical reports from Hassan district and submit a detailed analysis within 10 days.
