'We want to know what's happening': Karnataka Minister orders probe amid alarming cardiac-related deaths in Hassan

Dinesh Gundu Rao

After Karnataka's Hassan district recorded 18 cardiac-related deaths over the past 40 days, Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao has ordered an investigation into the situation, calling it a necessary action. All of these deaths involve young individuals aged between 18 and 40.

Gundu Rao said that he has requested a thorough probe to be led by experts from the Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Research, reported News18. A report is expected within 10 days.

“We wanted to find out exactly what’s going on. We took an initial look at the situation, and since there were about 18 cases in one month, some of them younger individuals, we felt it was necessary to get a proper scientific analysis done," Gundu Rao told News18.

Rao said that such a high number of deaths in one district alone is particularly alarming. "We’ve asked the team of experts to go there, examine the causes of all 18 deaths, and also check if similar cases are being reported in other districts. We have to see if the ratio is similar or if these cases from Hassan are unique," he said.

Health department data shows that Hassan district witnessed 190 fatal heart attacks out of 507 cases over the past two years, but the recent pattern is particularly disturbing due to the age profile of the deceased.

The situation has led to an 8% surge in outpatient visits to Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Research in Bengaluru, as more people seek cardiac evaluations amid growing anxiety. OPDs are reportedly overwhelmed, said News18

The committee was formed under Dr Ravindranath, Director of the Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Research, following orders from Harsh Gupta, Principal Secretary of the Health Department.

“There are many factors to assess – what caused these deaths, whether there were other unreported cases, and if this pattern is isolated to Hassan or more widespread. That’s why we’ve called for a full inquiry," he said.