39-year-old cardiac surgeon dies of heart attack: CMC Vellore doctor lists top causes of heart risk in young working professionals

The irony is daunting: A 39-year-old CARDIAC surgeon dies of a heart attack. Who would have thought that someone who swore to spend their lives saving hearts could fall victim to this very condition themselves? Let's learn more on this

Dr. Gradlin Roy, a young cardiologist, collapsed on the ground during his hospital rounds. Despite rigorous efforts by his team, including a CPR, stenting and the use of an Intra-aortic balloon pump, nothing could reverse the damage caused by this condition. His untimely and unexpected demise has affected the whole medical community along with the general population and has sent shockwaves and a very clear message that what might seem harmless at first, could be the reason for a silent yet serious health crisis among young healthcare professionals. Take a look.


This tragic event highlights the intense physical and mental burden that doctors face daily, putting their own well-being on stake. If this will not be considered a wake-up call, what will? Let's dig deeper.

Seeing this, a neurologist trained at CMC Vellore, Dr. Sudhir Kumar, shared a humbling message on his X account stating that “ When those who save lives fall il, it is a crucial reminder to prioritize doctors heart health.”

Along with that he stated, Dr. Roy’s death is far from an isolated case! Over the recent years, there has been alot of cases where young healthcare professionals fall prey to stern conditions in early 30s and 40s, succumbing to sudden heart attacks.

Heart attacks and why are doctors suffering from it?

Myocardial infarction (MI), most commonly known as a Heart attack, is caused by decreased or complete shut-off of blood flow in the portion of the Myocardium. Now, it can be “silent” and often go undetected until it's too late, resulting in a sudden death. Most of them are due to underlying coronary artery occlusion when the myocardium is deprived of oxygen. Some patients complain about discomfort in the chest or pressure in the neck, jaw, and shoulders. According to the clinical findings summarized by the NCBI, coronary artery disease remains the most common underlying cause of heart attacks.

According to Dr. Kumar, the top reasons why doctors face a higher risk of heart attacks is:

• Long, erratic hours: Often leading to interrupted sleep and disrupted circadian rhythms, slowly corroding our heart
• High stress levels: In this fast-paced life, it has become important to find ways through which we can fight stress, constant panic, decision-making, patient care and other concerns can take a toll on the doctor’s health.
• Sedentary routine: Longer working hours, standing for hours with little or no time for exercise can contribute to this condition
• Unhealthy eating habits: skipping meals, consuming outside junk, relying on hospital canteen food, all of this can hamper with the doctor’s health.
• Psychological burden (that is never shared): Conditions such as depression, burnout and emotional exhaustion all of these conditions affect heart health.
• Neglecting preventive care: Advising others not to miss regular check-ups but end up missing their own and ignoring symptoms.

In all of this, Dr. Kumar advises how a doctor can protect their heart

• Annual health screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes
• Getting proper 7 hours of sleep, even if split across the night
• Daily physical activity like brisk walking, jogging and cycling
• Taking breaks, vacations and making time for family and friends
• Learn to say ‘no’ to the work that is not so urgent to avoid burnout
• Do not ignore chest discomfort (persistent), unexplained shortness of breath and fatigue (prolonged)
• Balance meal, protein consumption and cut down on fried food.

What growing research says

According to the American College of Cardiology, heart attacks in people under 40 years of age have increased by 2% each year over the past decade. Furthermore, a study conducted by the American Heart Association revealed a 30% increase in heart attacks among adults aged 35-54 years. It further highlights lifestyle factors (meal, exercise, stress) all are major contributors to early heart disease.

The American Heart Association did a study that consisted of 240 young adults, and it found that better adherence to life’s essential 8 metrics, including blood pressure, healthy diet and sleep, all were linked to healthier carotid arteries and less early artery damage. Poor choices among young individuals increases long term risks of heart disease and stroke.

All of the above evidence, highlights the importance of adopting healthy habits early on, to protect heart health throughout life.
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