Bengaluru, 30 September 2024: To raise awareness about heart health and the importance of physical activity, actress Sangeetha Sringeri, the Chief Guest, inaugurated the Heart-athon event on World Heart Day. The event saw the presence of prominent figures such as Mr. Yuichi Nagano, Managing Director; Mr. Naoya Matsumi, Deputy Managing Director; Mr. Lovekesh Phasu, Group Coordinating Officer; and Dr. Sreekanth Shetty, Director & HOD, Department of Cardiology; Dr. Ashok Kumar, Senior Consultant – Interventional Cardiologist & Heart Failure Specialist; and Mr. P.J. Gurupradha Poonja, Associate Vice President, at Sakra World Hospital, Bengaluru. The event, themed “Let Each Step Mark Your Pledge for a Healthy Heart,” showcased strong community participation, united in their commitment to a healthier lifestyle.
Heart disease continues to be one of the leading non-communicable diseases worldwide, with India being no exception. Due to sedentary lifestyles, stress, and lack of physical activity, heart-related ailments are on the rise. A recent report by The Lancet highlighted that 49.4% of Indian adults fail to meet the recommended levels of physical activity—a figure projected to rise to 59.9% by 2030. The Heart-athon aims to motivate Bengalureans to engage in regular exercise, maintain balanced diets, and ensure adequate sleep—vital elements in maintaining heart health.
“Physical activity plays a crucial role in preventing heart disease and stroke, reducing the risk by up to 19%. Despite these benefits, many Indians remain inactive, missing an opportunity to improve their overall health,” said Dr. Sreekanth Shetty, Director & HOD – Department of Cardiology, Sakra World Hospital.
“Walking is a simple yet powerful way to promote heart health. This walkathon symbolizes more than just a one-time event—it’s a pledge to prioritize cardiovascular well-being. Staying physically active is essential for both heart and mental health,” stated Dr. Adil Sadiq, Director & Head of Cardio-Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Sakra World Hospital.
“This initiative emphasizes the need to focus on preventive healthcare. Through such platforms, we aim to inspire a mindset shift towards exercise and healthy living,” said Mr. Lovekesh Phasu, Group Coordinating Officer, Sakra World Hospital.
“Sakra World Hospital is committed to driving such proactive awareness campaigns, aligning with our mission to promote a healthier society,” shared Mr. Yuichi Nagano, Managing Director, Sakra World Hospital.
“Sakra World Hospital leads the way in heart health awareness, reminding us that every step brings us closer to a healthier future,” said Mr. Naoya Matsumi, Deputy Managing Director, Sakra World Hospital.
