Heart disease fears spur 20-30% increase in cardiac screenings, reports Mahajan Imaging & Labs

New Delhi: Concerns over heart health are driving a significant rise in cardiac screenings in individuals that fall in (30-65 yrs), with Mahajan Imaging & Labs reporting a remarkable 20-30% increase in investigations across 10 of its units over the past year. This surge reflects a growing awareness of the risks associated with heart disease.

These data findings indicate a significant shift toward preventive care as an increasing number of people are inclined to take proactive steps to address heart health concerns.

The rising prevalence of sedentary lifestyles, stress, and dietary habits have contributed to an increased incidence of cardiac events in younger populations. Health experts are attributing this trend to high-profile cases of sudden cardiac arrests and heart-related fatalities, which have amplified public awareness of the need for early detection and prevention. 

Kabir Mahajan, Chief Operating Officer, Mahajan Imaging & Labs, remarked, “We are observing a positive shift toward health consciousness, especially among young adults. Preventive cardiac screenings such as ECG, ECHO, TMT, and lipid profile tests are gaining traction as people prioritize early detection over reactive treatment. In 2024, we recorded a 20% overall increase in cardiac tests compared to 2023. TMT tests saw the highest growth at 30%, while ECG and CT Coronary tests rose by 25%, and ECHO by 14%. This surge highlights a growing commitment to proactive heart health.”

He also provided a key insight into women’s cardiac health, “For years, estrogen was believed to protect women from early heart disease, often leading to misdiagnoses in young women with chest pain. However, recent evidence shows this protection is only relative, especially for those with risk factors like diabetes, hypertension, or obesity. As a result, more premenopausal women are undergoing cardiac screening, and in many cases, early signs of heart disease are being detected. Recognizing these risks early is key to safeguarding women’s heart health.”

Dr. Punit Sethi, Director of CT, Mahajan Imaging & Labs, voiced his opinion, “Heart disease is no longer limited to older populations; it’s now a growing concern among younger individuals due to sedentary lifestyles, poor diets, and high stress levels. Indians are two to three times more likely to develop heart disease than Western populations, with genetics playing a major role. A family history of heart disease or diabetes significantly increases risk, making early screenings vital—ideally by age 25 for those with a family history and by 30 for others. Preventive cardiac screenings, now more accessible and affordable, enable early detection and lifelong guidance to manage risk factors like high blood pressure and arterial damage. However, true prevention lies in adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle: regular exercise, a balanced diet, and effective stress management. Additionally, recognizing heart attack symptoms and acting quickly, such as getting an ECG, can save lives. Proactive measures are no longer optional—they are essential for long-term heart health.”

Increased adoption of health monitoring apps and wearable devices has further fueled this trend, enabling individuals to track key parameters such as heart rate and blood pressure. Early screening and diagnosis have proven instrumental in identifying risk factors like hypertension, high cholesterol, and arrhythmias, empowering patients to take proactive measures.

Healthcare providers are also stepping up by offering specialized screening packages tailored for younger demographics, ensuring accessible and affordable preventive care.

The increase in cardiac screenings marks a crucial step in combating heart disease, with experts urging individuals to incorporate regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, and stress management into their routines to maintain heart health.