Heart Patients in Gujarat on the Rise, Ahmedabad Tops

Ahmedabad : Gujarat is witnessing an alarming increase in the number of heart-related emergencies, with data from 2024 highlighting a worrying trend. So far this year, 73,470 people have been hospitalised for heart conditions, marking a slight rise compared to 72,573 cases in 2023. The consistent upward trajectory in heart-related cases over the years underscores the growing health challenge in the state.

Rising Emergency Calls Indicate Worsening Health

According to data from Gujarat’s EMRI emergency services, heart-related distress calls have surged significantly. In 2021, there were 42,555 such calls, which rose to 56,277 in 2022 and further spiked to 72,573 in 2023. This year has already seen a 16.66% increase in emergency calls compared to the previous year.

Experts attribute this alarming trend to factors like changing lifestyles, unhealthy eating habits, rising stress levels, and limited awareness about preventive measures.

Ahmedabad Leads in Heart-Related Emergencies

Among Gujarat’s cities, Ahmedabad reported the highest number of heart-related emergencies in 2024. A staggering 24,460 people have been hospitalised in the city for heart conditions this year, accounting for nearly 30% of the state’s total cases. On average, 67 residents in Ahmedabad are admitted to hospitals daily due to heart issues.

The data reveals a 15.47% increase in heart-related cases in Ahmedabad compared to 2023. The Asarwa Civil Hospital’s heart centre alone has performed 26,199 cardiac surgeries this year, reflecting the growing burden on the city’s healthcare system.

Porbandar Records the Sharpest Increase

While Ahmedabad tops in absolute numbers, Porbandar has seen the steepest rise in heart-related cases. The city recorded a 39.73% increase, with cases rising from 1,145 in 2023 to 1,601 in 2024. This spike highlights the spread of the heart disease epidemic to smaller cities, necessitating immediate intervention.

Statewide Heart Disease Hotspots

Emergency heart-related calls place Ahmedabad first in Gujarat, followed by Surat, Rajkot, Vadodara, and Bhavnagar. This trend reflects a statewide issue that cuts across urban and semi-urban areas, pointing to the need for a comprehensive health strategy.

The consistent rise in heart disease cases in Gujarat serves as a wake-up call for health authorities and citizens alike. Health experts stress the importance of early detection, regular check-ups, and lifestyle changes to mitigate the risk. Public awareness campaigns focusing on heart health, coupled with investments in healthcare infrastructure, are critical to addressing this growing crisis.