Beats, Heat, and Heartbeats: Sudden Surge in Heart Conditions During Navratri In Gujarat

— An Article by Poojan Patel

In the wake of the recent spate of heart-related deaths during the joyous Navratri celebrations in Gujarat, it becomes imperative to delve into the underlying reasons and causes that have contributed to this alarming rise in cardiovascular incidents.

According to a recent report, at least 10 individuals, ranging from 13-year-olds to middle-aged adults, lost their lives to reported heart attacks in a span of just 24 hours while participating in Garba festivities. Among the tragic incidents, a 24-year-old Garba enthusiast from Ahmedabad collapsed and passed away, followed by the untimely demise of a 17-year-old boy who suffered a sudden cardiac arrest while engrossed in the dance in Kapadvanj Kheda district. Another heartbreaking incident involved a 28-year-old from Ahmedabad, identified as Ravi Panchal, who collapsed and died during Garba, alongside a 55-year-old named Shankar Rana from Vadodara.

Disturbingly, during the initial six days of Navratri, emergency ambulance services received a staggering 609 calls for dyspnea and 521 calls for heart-related problems between 6 pm and 2 am, coinciding with the peak hours of Garba celebrations.

In response to the alarming situation, the Gujarat government has issued an alert to all public hospitals and community health centers near Garba venues, urging heightened preparedness. Even before the festivities had started, the government had mandated organizers of commercial Garba events to deploy ambulances and medical teams, emphasizing the need for immediate aid in case of health emergencies.

In the context of the recent surge in heart-related incidents, Dr. Zeal Prajapati, a dietitian, provides invaluable insights into the pivotal role of a heart-healthy lifestyle in mitigating the risk of heart attacks.

“A cornerstone of heart-healthy living is a rich and varied diet. Fruits and vegetables, bursting with antioxidants and fiber, form the bedrock of cardiovascular support. These nutritional powerhouses not only work to lower cholesterol levels but also wield anti-inflammatory properties, vital for overall heart health.”

“Beyond the vibrant spectrum of fruits and vegetables, our dietary choices should feature whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Nuts, seeds, and fatty fish, abundant in beneficial fats, actively contribute to maintaining a heart-friendly lipid profile.”

The Ahmedabad chapter of the Indian Medical Association had previously recommended medical check-ups for individuals above 40 with a family history of heart disease before participating in Garba. Guidelines were issued to both participants and organizers to address the rising cases of heart attacks.

The tragic incidents have raised concerns, prompting experts to examine multiple factors contributing to the surge in heart-related problems during Navratri. Lifestyle-related causes, such as obesity, hypertension, and diabetes, as well as hereditary factors, have been identified as potential risk factors. Furthermore, a study published in the Indian Heart Journal revealed a 50% increase in reported heart attacks during Navratri in Gujarat over the past decade, with the average age of victims decreasing in recent years. Strenuous activity, dehydration, and substance use during the celebrations were cited as contributing factors.

As Gujarat grapples with this unexpected health crisis, authorities and medical professionals are urging the public to prioritize health and safety during festive celebrations, emphasizing the importance of moderation and awareness to prevent further tragedies.

Dr Anurag Mehrotra, chairman of the cardiology department at Siddh Hospital, said data from the Indian Council of Medical Research states that over 11% of people in India are diabetic, more than 15% are pre-diabetic, 36% are hypertensive and more than 50% are obese. All of these lead to problems in heart arteries. 

“In most of these patients, there is evidence of coronary artery disease. The age for the onset of coronary artery disease (plaque buildup in the wall of the arteries), hypertension, and diabetes have come down. We have a young population, but it is not very healthy,” Mr Mehrotra said.

 “Hydration, often an underrated element in heart health, plays a crucial role. Opting for water over sugary beverages not only keeps us adequately hydrated but also supports overall cardiovascular health. However, a heart-healthy diet is just one piece of the puzzle. It seamlessly integrates into a broader lifestyle framework, encompassing regular physical activity, effective stress management, and the avoidance of smoking. This collective approach significantly diminishes the risk of heart attacks, promoting not just longevity but a life brimming with health” Adds Dr. Prajapati.