29 September 2025 :A recent report released by Apollo Hospitals has raised serious concerns about rising cardiovascular health risks in India’s major metropolitan cities. According to the findings, Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru are turning into hotspots for heart disease, driven by lifestyle habits, pollution, and stress.
Rising Burden of Heart Disease
The Apollo study shows that urban lifestyles are directly contributing to a surge in heart-related illnesses. Factors such as sedentary work culture, fast-paced living, pollution, unhealthy diets, and high stress levels are making India’s metros particularly vulnerable.
Dr. Prathap C. Reddy, Chairman of Apollo Hospitals, noted:
“India is witnessing a disturbing trend of younger populations in metros suffering from cardiovascular conditions, often a decade earlier compared to Western nations.”
Key Findings of the Report
- Delhi: High pollution levels and stressful living are leading to increased cases of hypertension and coronary artery disease.
- Mumbai: Fast-paced lifestyles and long commute times are contributing to high cholesterol, obesity, and blood pressure issues.
- Bengaluru: Rising tech-driven sedentary jobs are fueling higher cases of diabetes and heart risks in relatively younger age groups.
The report also highlighted that nearly 1 in 3 adults in these cities show early markers of cardiovascular disease, including high blood sugar, obesity, or abnormal lipid levels.
Early Onset Among Younger Adults
One of the most worrying aspects is the younger age of onset. Traditionally seen in people above 50, heart disease is now increasingly affecting people in their 30s and 40s in India’s metros.
This trend has been linked to:
- Long work hours in corporate jobs.
- Stress from competitive work cultures.
- Easy access to processed, high-calorie foods.
- Lack of regular physical activity.
Role of Pollution
Air pollution is another major driver. Delhi in particular has some of the highest pollution levels in the world, which damages blood vessels, increases blood pressure, and elevates the risk of heart attacks.
Studies have shown that fine particulate matter (PM2.5) directly impacts cardiovascular health, making pollution not only a respiratory issue but also a serious heart health risk.
Expert Voices
Dr. Aparna Jaswal, Senior Cardiologist at Apollo Hospitals, said:
“We’re seeing patients as young as 35 come in with heart blockages. Urban stress and environmental factors are silently pushing cities into a heart disease crisis.”
She emphasized the need for routine heart screenings even in younger, seemingly healthy adults.
The Way Forward
Apollo’s report calls for a multi-pronged strategy to tackle the rising burden of heart disease:
- Preventive Screenings: Annual check-ups for blood pressure, cholesterol, and sugar levels.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating people about risk factors and lifestyle changes.
- Workplace Wellness Programs: Encouraging exercise, stress management, and healthier food options in offices.
- Policy Measures: Stronger actions on air quality improvement and urban planning.
- Diet & Lifestyle Modifications: Promoting heart-friendly foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3s.
The Urban-Rural Divide
Interestingly, the report also notes that while rural India still faces limited healthcare access, urban India is dealing with lifestyle-driven diseases. This creates a dual challenge for policymakers – ensuring access in rural areas while addressing lifestyle epidemics in cities.
The Bigger Picture
India already contributes to one-fifth of the global deaths from cardiovascular disease. With urban populations growing rapidly, the burden is expected to rise unless immediate action is taken.
The Apollo Report emphasizes that prevention is the most cost-effective solution. With early intervention, lifestyle changes, and policy support, India can slow down this dangerous trend.
Summary
An Apollo Hospitals report warns that Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru are emerging heart disease hotspots due to pollution, stress, and lifestyle issues, with rising cases among younger adults in metro cities.