In a bid to promote heart health and raise awareness about the importance of physical activity, actress Ms. Sangeetha Sringeri, the Chief Guest, flagged off the Heart-athon event on World Heart Day. The event was graced by the esteemed presence of Mr. Yuichi Nagano, Managing Director; Mr. Naoya Matsumi, Deputy Managing Director; Mr. Lovekesh Phasu, Group Coordinating Officer; and Dr. Sreekanth Shetty, Director & HOD of the 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. Themed “Let Each Step Mark Your Pledge for a Healthy Heart,” the event brought together a vibrant display of community spirit, all committed to taking steps toward a healthier lifestyle.
Heart disease remains one of the leading non-communicable diseases globally, and India is no exception. With the increasing prevalence of sedentary lifestyles, stress, and lack of physical activity, heart-related ailments are on the rise. A recent report by “The Lancet” revealed that 49.4% of Indian adults do not meet the recommended levels of physical activity, a worrying statistic projected to increase to 59.9% by 2030 if current trends continue. The Heart-athon, therefore, served as a vital initiative to encourage Bengalureans to step out of their homes and unite in promoting and pledging to adopt healthier lifestyles through regular exercise, balanced diets, and adequate sleep—all essential factors for maintaining a healthy heart.
“Physical activity plays a crucial role in preventing heart disease and stroke, reducing the risk by up to 19%. Despite these benefits, many Indians continue to lead inactive lives, missing an opportunity to improve overall well-being,” said Dr. Sreekanth Shetty, Director & HOD – Department of Cardiology at Sakra World Hospital, Bengaluru.
“Walking is a simple yet impactful way to promote heart health. This walkathon represents more than just a one-time event—it’s a pledge to prioritize cardiovascular well-being. Staying physically active is key to maintaining both heart and mental health,” shared Dr. Adil Sadiq, Director and Head of Cardio-Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Sakra World Hospital, Bengaluru.
“This campaign underscores the critical need to focus on preventive healthcare. By creating such platforms, we hope to inspire a change in mindset towards exercise and healthy living,” said Mr. Lovekesh Phasu, Group Coordinating Officer, Sakra World Hospital, Bengaluru.
“Sakra World Hospital remains committed to driving such proactive awareness campaigns that align with its mission of promoting a healthier society,” shared Mr. Yuichi Nagano, Managing Director, Sakra World Hospital, Bengaluru.
“Sakra World Hospital stands at the forefront of heart health awareness, reminding us that each step we take brings us closer to a healthier future,” said Mr. Naoya Matsumi, Deputy Managing Director, Sakra World Hospital, Bengaluru.