Cardiac Arrest Claims Actor Vikas Sethi: Why Are Young Adults Facing More Heart Problems?

On Sunday, September 8, Vikas Sethi, a renowned actor from the 2000s, passed away at the age of 48. He died peacefully in his sleep due to a severe heart attack. His sudden death has left his family, including his wife Jhanvi Sethi and their twin sons, in mourning. An official statement from the family regarding his passing has not yet been released. His unexpected demise adds to a concerning trend of high-profile figures succumbing to heart-related issues.

Vikas Sethi’s death follows the untimely demise of Indian actor, host, and model Sidharth Shukla, who passed away on September 2, 2021, at the age of 40 due to a heart attack. In another recent incident, Bollywood actor Shreyas Talpade suffered a heart attack after finishing a shoot. He was subsequently hospitalized in Mumbai and underwent angioplasty. Fortunately, he was reported to be stable post-procedure. The rising incidence of cardiac arrest among younger individuals is becoming increasingly alarming. This trend is attributed to a mix of environmental, behavioral, and genetic factors. Unlike heart attacks, which are caused by blockages in the heart’s blood supply, cardiac arrest occurs when there is a sudden electrical disruption in the heart that causes it to stop beating abruptly.

Dr. Sanjeev Chaudhary, Clinical Director of Cardiology at Marengo Asia Hospitals in Gurugram, explains that genetic conditions such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) or arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) are common causes of cardiac arrest in younger people. Certain medical conditions that lead to arrhythmias, or irregular heart rhythms, can also trigger sudden cardiac arrest. Additionally, undiagnosed congenital heart defects and electrical disorders like Long QT syndrome can increase the risk. Lifestyle factors such as obesity, poor diet, lack of physical activity, and excessive stress contribute to cardiovascular strain, even in younger populations. Drug abuse, whether for recreational purposes or performance enhancement, further exacerbates heart health issues. While increased awareness, improved diagnostics, and more comprehensive reporting may partly explain the rising incidence, stress and sedentary lifestyles are significant contributors.

To mitigate the risk of cardiac arrest, it is essential to prioritize heart health by engaging in regular physical exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, and scheduling frequent check-ups. Individuals with a family history of heart disease should particularly focus on screening for cardiac irregularities. Avoiding smoking, drug abuse, and managing stress effectively are also crucial for maintaining heart health. The availability of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in public places and proficiency in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) can be life-saving during cardiac emergencies by providing prompt intervention.

Vikas Sethi, known for his notable roles in popular daily soap operas of the 2000s, gained recognition for his performances in TV shows such as “Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi,” “Kahiin To Hoga,” and “Kasautii Zindagi Kay.” His contributions to television were widely appreciated. Additionally, he appeared in the iconic film “Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham,” where he played Robbie, a friend of Kareena Kapoor’s character. The news of Vikas Sethi’s unexpected passing has deeply affected his fans and colleagues in the television and film industries, who are expressing their condolences and mourning his loss.

The increasing frequency of cardiac issues among prominent figures underscores the importance of heart health awareness and preventive measures. Vikas Sethi’s death is a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and proactive management of heart health to prevent such tragic outcomes.