HEART attacks are striking younger Fijians, with a 24-year-old among 64 patients needing treatment at the Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Heart Hospital.
Senior Consultant Cardiologist from Apollo Hospitals Bangalore in India, Dr Jayaranganath Mahimarangaiah said the case highlighted the changing age profile of heart disease in Fiji.
“About three decades ago we used to see heart attacks at 60 to 78 years. Here we had a patient of 24-25 years old who had a major heart attack. Heart attacks are no longer an old man’s disease,” Dr Mahimarangaiah said.
Mr Mahimarangaiah led a four-member specialist team that reviewed 232 patients and performed 64 interventional procedures, including angioplasty and stenting.
Thirteen patients received stents with all 64 discharged yesterday without complications and at no cost.
“It is okay to have a heart attack at 70 to 75, but what happens when young people die at 35 to 55? They are members of the family. What will happen to the kids?”
Mr Mahimarangaiah identified smoking, stress and sugar, referring to diabetes as major lifestyle-related risks.
“All three are contributed by lifestyle. Diabetes is one of the most important factors. Smoking is one of the worst.”
Other risks include high cholesterol, hypertension, family history and genetics.
“Nothing is more important than health. Most of our diet across the world comprises carbohydrates. The world is going towards less carbohydrates.
“Lifestyle management, diet and exercise can modify these risk factors.”
“Love your body first,” was his advice to Fijians.
He said the adult program followed a promise made in April, 2026, by founder Sadguru Sri Madhusudan Sai, with visiting teams expected every two to three months.
“This is not just one mission or one episode. Visiting teams will come every two to three months.”
Dr Mahimarangaiah also called for continued support from donors, the media and the public.
