As part of its responsibility to the community, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, conducted a month-long Heart Health Insights Survey with practicing doctors across South Mumbai and peripheral suburban areas. The survey engaged cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, resident medical officers (RMOs), and general practitioners, offering a comprehensive view of cardiac health challenges in the region.
Heart Disease Is No Longer Just an Old-Age Problem
The survey revealed alarming trends: heart disease is increasingly affecting younger populations. Two-thirds of doctors reported a significant rise in cardiac cases among people under 40, while middle-aged adults remain the most affected group.
Dr. Gulshan Rohra, Chief Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, noted:
“Ten years ago, cardiac patients in their 30s were rare. Today, we see professionals in their late 20s and 30s presenting with heart attacks linked to stress, poor lifestyle habits, and neglect of health. This is a wake-up call for urban India.”
Preventive Care Remains Neglected
The findings also showed that preventive heart check-ups are still largely overlooked. Only one in three patients undergo screening, while most seek medical advice only after symptoms appear.
Dr. Parin Sangoi, Consultant Interventional Cardiologist, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, emphasized:
“Preventive care is almost absent in our culture. Even educated patients underestimate cardiac risk. By the time they reach us, many have already missed the ‘golden hour’, reducing chances of survival and recovery. Prevention and awareness must now be the new priority.”
Awareness Gaps Continue to Persist
More than 70% of doctors observed that patients had only partial knowledge about blood pressure, cholesterol, and sugar control. Over half said patients failed to recognize early warning signs of a heart attack, such as chest pain, sweating, or breathlessness.
Dr. Virendra Chauhan, Center Head, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, explained:
“This survey reflects the reality we face daily. Awareness, speed, and access are three crucial factors. At Wockhardt, we see it as our duty to address these gaps by working with doctors, communities, and media to build a healthier Mumbai.”
Survey Scope and Participation
The survey covered regions across Western India including Mumbai City–MMR, Rajkot, and Nagpur. A total of 326 doctors participated, with 117 doctors from South Mumbai contributing responses that formed the core of this report.
Key Survey Insights
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Gender Distribution of Heart Patients
- 67% of doctors said men are predominantly affected
- 23% observed a balanced distribution
Remark: Men remain at higher risk, but women are increasingly affected too.
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Most Affected Age Group
- Over 80% identified middle-aged adults (41–60 years)
- 10% pointed to seniors (60+)
- 8% reported cases among young adults (<40 years)
Remark: Heart disease is no longer confined to old age — middle age is now the danger zone.
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Rising Cases Among the Young
- 62% said cases under 40 have increased significantly
- 34% reported a slight increase
Remark: Doctors confirm a sharp rise in cardiac problems among youth.
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Primary Drivers of Heart Disease
- 87% cited multiple factors: stress, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, poor diet, and diabetes
Remark: Modern lifestyle creates a dangerous mix of risk factors.
- 87% cited multiple factors: stress, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, poor diet, and diabetes
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Preventive Check-Ups vs Symptom-Driven Visits
- Only 35% of patients opt for preventive screening
- 65% consult doctors only after symptoms appear
Remark: Preventive care is being ignored until it is too late.
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Patient Awareness of Health Parameters
- 70% partially aware of BP, cholesterol, and sugar levels
- 20% well aware
Remark: Most live with “half-knowledge,” which increases risk.
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Timely Arrival During Emergencies
- 40% said patients rarely reach within the golden hour
- 45% said sometimes
Remark: Delay in reaching hospitals continues to cost lives.
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Recognition of Early Heart Attack Signs
- 50% said patients have partial awareness
- 30% observed poor awareness
Remark: Many fail to link chest pain or sweating with a heart attack.
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Barriers to Timely Treatment
- 40% cited all factors: late recognition, lack of emergency response, and financial hurdles
- Others highlighted delays in symptom recognition and poor emergency knowledge
Remark: Barriers are both medical and social — awareness, speed, and access are critical.
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Most Effective Preventive Strategy
- Majority recommended lifestyle modification (diet, exercise, no tobacco/alcohol)
Others suggested more facilities and regular screenings
Remark: Prevention lies in lifestyle choices and early interventions.