Nidae Kashmir
Rising Heart Attacks In Kashmir During Winter
Liyaqat Gulzar
itooliyaqat@gmail.com
In Kashmir, winter is not just a time of scenic beauty and snow-lust however a season that brings emergence rise in heart attacks. The region, known for its harsh winter conditions, has witnessed an escalating number of cardiovascular incidents during this time, since past few years.
Behind the issue:
The extreme cold temperature in Kashmir causes the body to undergo significant physiological changes, most of which have tendency to elevate risk of heart attacks. Cold temperature cause vasoconstriction, which in turn leads to an increase in blood pressure, thus puts strain on heart, heart tries to cope with this strain but sometimes fail to cope and results in heart attacks either stroke particularly among individuals who already suffer from underlying cardiovascular diseases.
Moreover, lifestyle in Kashmir during winters also changes that also makes contribution in rising heart attacks. During winters people in Kashmir discourage outdoor activity and tend to stay indoors, results in more sedentary lifestyle. Sedentary lifestyle is one of the major risk factor of most cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, many rely on traditional, rich foods for warmth during winter, often high in LDL (bad fat) and salt, which further exacerbates the strain on cardiovascular system.
Data and trends:
Contemporary reports from hospitals from Srinagar and other parts of Kashmir have shown an alarming increase in the number of heart attack cases during the winter months. As per information from GMC Srinagar, 700 people had cardiovascular failure during four months of winter between mid-November and mid-March in 2020, which contributes for 30-40% rising in heart related issues than other seasons.
Barriers in tackling the issue:
Tackling the rise in heart attacks during winter is not without obstacles. The most significant hurdle is limited access to healthcare facilities in remote areas of Kashmir. Heavy snowfall during the winter in Kashmir causes roadblock which in turn interferes with patients in reaching hospitals a timely manner. Delayed access to emergency care can prove fatal, especially when dealing with conditions like heart attacks, where prompt medical attention is crucial.
Another challenge is lack of widespread awareness about the increased risk of heart-related issues during winter. Many people in Kashmir remain unaware of how cold weather their cardiovascular system and how they can protect themselves. Additionally, there is often a misconception that health problems only occur due to old age, with many younger individuals failing to take preventive measures.
Preventive measures and recommendations:
To reduce the risk of heart attacks during winters in Kashmir, both individuals and the healthcare system need to take proactive measures.
- For individuals:
• Stay active: Even in the cold, it’s essential to engage in physical activity. Simple indoor exercises or even walk in within warm indoor spaces can help maintain cardiovascular health.
• Heart-healthy diet: instead of relying on fatty and salty foods, individuals should incorporate more heart-health options into their diet, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains also spices like turmeric and ginger, which are common in Kashmiri cuisine, can also promote heart health.
• Stay warm, but avoid overexertion: Dressing in layers, staying indoors during drastic decrease in temperatureand using heating system safely can prevent cold induced stress on body. - For healthcare and authorities:
• Improve health care services: Healthcare services should be strengthened particularly in remote areas, so that people have early access to emergency services.
• Public awareness campaigns: Raising public awareness about the specific heart risks posed by winter conditions is key to prevention. Use of IEC (Information Education Communication) and BCC (Behavior Change Communication) should be used.
• Regular checkups: Encouraging regular checkups, especially for those with a history of heart disease, can help catch the problem before they become fatal.
Conclusion
Rising number in heart attacks in Kashmir during winters is matter of concern which invites prompt attention. The combination cold weather, lifestyle changes, and limited access to health care has created a storm for an increase in cardiovascular incidents. By understanding the risks and taking preventive measures, both individuals and the health care system can work together to mitigate the impact of this growing storm. Kashmir’s beautiful winters should not come at the cost of heart health.a
