HOW TO PREVENT A HEART ATTACK KEEP CHOLESTROL, BLOOD PRESSURE AND SUGAR UNDER CONTROL OPT FOR MODERATE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY CONTROL CHRONIC STRESS DON’T UNDER OR OVER TEST

KNOW YOUR GENETICS

South Asians are more prone to heart disease than their western counterparts. Cut down other risk factors such as smoking, even passive smoking, and wear masks in polluted air They are the silent killers for the heart in the long run Too little or too much activity are detrimental for your heart health. Opt for something moderate such as walking, yoga or swimming Take time out to look after yourself. If the stress is constant, look for solutions and seek help if needed Should you have many risk factors for heart disease, two tests a year are enough or as recommended by a doctor. Otherwise, an annual check-up should suffice. It is best to start with primary testing and then consult a doctor for invasive tests, if required

“If you have had health problems for 20-30 years, then the damage is already done by the time you reach your 40s and 50s”

DR SHASHIDHAR Head, Interventional Cardiology, Fortis, Bannerghatta Road, Bengaluru