‘Marathon’ docs run with citizens to care for the heart

by Psu Connect
Date: 01-10-24

Over 1000 people participate in precise 7.2 miles Heartathon designed for ideal heart rate of 72/minutes to mark World Heart Day on Sunday in JP Nagar

‘Marathon’ docs run with citizens to care for the heart

Bangalore: They are doctors alright, but also mighty marathoners in their own right. Not ordinary. They ran alongside over 1,000 citizens in J P Nagar’s residential areas to commemorate World Heart Day to not only create awareness on the need to take care of the heart, but also aid anyone who may have had experienced any health issue during the 7.2 miles/3.6 mile ‘Heartathon’. The Heartathon was organized by Aster RV Hospital, JP Nagar with the intend to increase public awareness of Cardiovascular disease including its prevention and global impact.

A Hale and hearty Rajan (Name changed) who had undergone a heart transplant and Renowned and one of the most respected cricketer of yesteryears Shri. G R Vishwanath, who is known for his elegance, sportsmanship and ability to play under pressure, flagged off the event. Speaking on the occasion, he emphasized on the importance of knowing our own health of the Heart as so important as it would help us have a healthier tomorrow as we catch up with age and was all praises for the doctors and the hospital staff who stood as a testimony in conveying the importance of physical exercises and healthy lifestyle. The event was also graced by the MLA of the locality Shri. CK Ramamurthy

"THE PROCEEDS OF THE MARATHON WILL BE UTILIZED TO SUPPORT HEART TRANSPLANTS AND OTHER LIFE THREATENING CONDITIONS OF THE HEART OF CHILDREN AND PATIENTS FROM ECONOMICALLY CHALLENGED BACKGROUND"

Dr. Divakar Bhat, Cardiac Surgeon (Consultant, CTVS Surgery), who has run both the half marathon of 21km and full marathon of 42 km, and participated in the Heartathon, explains why Aster RV Hospital organized a very precise 7.2 miles (11.6 Kms) termed as Strong Heart Run and 3.6 miles (5.8 Kms) termed as healthy heart run, with the theme, Use Your Heart For Action, on Sunday, and not a half or full marathon. The overall objective of the precise run was to ensure optimum cardiac health as cardio-vascular disease and stroke are common cause of death, especially among the young.”

Dr. Veerendra Sandur, Chief Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist, a consistent marathoner who has conquered the Khardungla pass at over 18,000 ft, participated in the renowned South Africa Comarafes ultra mararthon for medical specialists, runs over 50 kms a week, is a member of the marathon group Trailblazers, and who was part of the Heartathon on Sunday offered his perspective on why people should be cautious about long distance running. “It is not advisable to do half or full marathons suddenly. It is important to undertake a medical check-up and consultation with a medical specialist before getting into long runs.

Participation in a long run should be gradual and people should never aim for high intensity speed in these runs as there is likelihood of cardiac issues. Adhering to certain parameters is crucial and strengthening the muscular structure is vital in long runs. Moreover, 30 per cent of the people face cardiac reflux owing to acidity, which could have cardiac implications. Hence, short runs are ideal to begin with especially for people above 30 to 40 years of age. Also, only 30 to 40 pc of people can complete marathons. Hence it is necessary to keep all these precautions in view before taking part in long runs.”

Dr. S Venkatesh, Lead Consultant - Interventional Cardiology, Aster RV Hospital who has several half marathons & 10k runs under his belt said, “Awareness plays a pivotal role in combating heart disease, with a strong focus on public education, community programs, and global initiatives like World Heart Day.

These efforts aim to raise awareness about the risk factors, preventive measures, and importance of early intervention in heart health. Campaigns emphasize identifying major risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, and sedentary lifestyles, which are all significant contributors to heart disease. Additionally, they promote adopting healthier habits, including balanced diets, regular physical activity, stress management, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol. Recognizing early warning signs, like chest pain, shortness of breath, and irregular heartbeats, is also a key focus, as these symptoms can lead to prompt medical intervention, potentially saving lives.”

The doctors also don’t advise people to run on treadmills as running on moving surfaces could lead to joint pains in the long run. Running on static surfaces over short distances over half to one hour daily is ideal as this would enhance metabolism, appetite, relieve one from constipation, and on the other hand enhance positivity, happiness and healthy family life. They advise that it is crucial to listen to the body and know when to run, how much to run and when to stop to ensure good cardiac health. “All you need is your mind, a pair of shoes and a good attitude to run. Running is the cheapest exercise and the most inexpensive way of maintaining good health.”

Ramesh R, acitizen of Bangalore who participated in the run, said: “The Heartathon was achievable as the distance was just right. The residential areas were also the right location to run as it was safe and manageable. I have realized the need to maintain fitness as it is key to living a healthy life. And light running is just the appropriate exercise for cardiac care. It was a joy to be part of this event.”

The Heartathon concluded with medals and replicas in the shape of heart and T-shirts with health-related messages being distributed to participants as mementos. The run coasted through the green areas of J P Nagar injecting a healthy spirit among the populace. It was a ‘runners high’ on Sunday.