Kolkata Hosts Insightful Session on Heart Health Amid Rising Concerns

PARTHA ROY, KOLKATA: In a timely initiative, the Calcutta Chamber of Commerce organized a special session on Heart Care on January 24, 2026, emphasizing preventive strategies for cardiovascular health. Eminent Cardiologist Dr. Anjan Siotia, Director of B.M. Birla Heart Hospital, delivered a keynote address, highlighting calorie management, gender-specific approaches, ethnic implications, and heart attack protocols. Shri Anant Saharia, President of the Chamber, in his welcome speech, underscored the vital link between a healthy heart and effective business management, stating, “A sound heart fuels a thriving industry and strengthen and empower the inner core for outer success”.

Dr. Siotia stressed preventive care through balanced calorie intake, recommending a diet low in saturated fats and high in fiber to control cholesterol and obesity.He warned against high-calorie foods, which can immediately stiffen blood vessels, raise cholesterol, and heighten heart disease risk. Tobacco consumption and smoking were flagged as major threats, doubling stroke risk and increasing heart disease by 2-4 times. Regular moderate exercise, at least 150 minutes weekly, can reduce risks by managing diabetes and blood pressure.

He noted gender distinctions: Women often experience subtler signs like upper back pain or indigestion during heart attacks, unlike men’s typical chest discomfort, necessitating tailored screenings. Ethnic factors were also addressed. Impact of socio-economic and genetic disparities also analysed.

Alarmingly, Dr. Siotia highlighted the surge in heart attacks among youth in their 30s and 40s, rising by 2% annually, with 1 in 5 attacks now in those under 40, linked to lifestyle factors. For a healthy heart, he advocated de-stressing regularly by spending time in nature, walking, jogging, and sun basking, which lower blood pressure, reduce stress hormones, boost vitamin D, and enhance overall well-being.

On heart attack management, immediate recognition of symptoms like shortness of breath, nausea, or arm pain is crucial, followed by prompt medical intervention such as aspirin administration and CPR if needed. The session, attended by industry leaders, called for widespread awareness to combat India’s growing CVD burden.