The medical fraternity is mourning the tragic loss of Dr. Gradlin Roy, a 39-year-old cardiac surgeon from Chennai, who died after a sudden massive heart attack while on duty. Despite immediate advanced interventions – CPR, urgent angioplasty with stenting, intra-aortic balloon pump, and even ECMO – his life could not be saved.
The cause was a 100% blockage in the left main coronary artery, often referred to as the “widow-maker,” which usually results in catastrophic outcomes.
While shocking, this incident is not isolated. A growing number of young doctors in their 30s and 40s are succumbing to sudden cardiac arrests. This raises an important question: Why are those who save lives themselves falling prey to heart disease so early?
1. The Silent Risks Doctors Face
Long Hours & Irregular Lifestyle
Doctors often work 12–18 hours a day, sometimes more than 24 hours in a single stretch. The result? Skipped meals, irregular eating, reliance on caffeine, and no fixed sleep routine.
High Stress Levels
The pressure of handling emergencies, making life-saving decisions, and the looming threat of medico-legal consequences creates constant mental stress.
Neglect of Personal Health
While doctors advise patients to get regular check-ups, they themselves often miss them. Subtle warning signs like fatigue, indigestion, or palpitations are ignored until it’s too late.
Mental Health Burnout
Burnout, anxiety, and depression are common but rarely addressed in healthcare professionals. Chronic mental strain further increases cardiac risk.
2. Red Flag Symptoms That Should Never Be Ignored
Even young professionals should seek medical advice if they experience:
- Unexplained chest pain or heaviness
- Breathlessness on mild exertion
- Unusual fatigue
- Palpitations or dizziness
- Sleep disturbances due to stress
These are often dismissed as “work stress” but may be early cardiac warning signs.
3. How Doctors (and Young Professionals) Can Protect Their Hearts
✅ Prioritize Regular Check-ups
- ECG, Echocardiography, Lipid profile, and Stress Test – even in the 30s.
✅ Adopt a Heart-Healthy Lifestyle
- At least 30 minutes of daily exercise
- Balanced meals, rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and good fats
- Limit junk food, refined carbs, and excessive caffeine
✅ Focus on Mental Wellness
- Practice mindfulness, yoga, or meditation
- Talk openly about stress and seek counseling if needed
✅ Sleep is Non-Negotiable
- Aim for 7–8 hours of quality sleep daily
✅ Institutional Responsibility
- Hospitals must ensure structured shifts, adequate rest, and access to mental health support for doctors.
4. The Takeaway
The sudden loss of Dr. Roy is a wake-up call – not just for doctors, but for all young professionals working in high-stress environments. A demanding career should never come at the cost of one’s own health.
Taking care of your heart is not a luxury, it’s a necessity.
👉 At RG Diet & Wellness, we strongly advocate preventive health. A simple lifestyle shift and regular screenings can make all the difference in avoiding tragedies like this.
