Practo insights highlight a significant rise in cardiac consultations

New Delhi: The insights shared by Practo, India’s leading digital healthcare company, demonstrate a substantial increase in people taking active steps to look after their heart health. These findings were released recently on the occasion of World Heart Day on September 29, 2023.

As per Practo study, in the last 4 years (2018-2022), Practo observed a 215% increase in total consultations related to cardiovascular health. During the same period teleconsultations grew by 912% and in-person consultations grew by 27%

Since the pandemic, patients are increasingly using teleconsultations to consult doctors for the heart health. In 2018, 86% of the consultations were done in-person and 14% were done virtually. In 2022, 55% of the consultations were done in-person and 45% done virtually.

The age of 25-34 years contribute to maximum consultations across men and women in the last one year (Jan 2022 to Dec 2022). 78% of total consultations are done by Men and 22% by women.

Among men, the age group of 25 – 34 contributed to the largest number of consultations of 51%, followed by 35- 44 at 32%, 18 – 24 at 6%, 45 – 54 at 6%, 55 – 64 at 2%, and below 18 at 3%.

Similarly, among women, the age group of 25 – 34 contributed to the largest number of consultations of 57%, followed by 35- 44 at 25%, 18 – 24 at 7%, 45 – 54 at 6%, 55 – 64 at 2%, and below 18 at 3%.

Dr. Abhijit Paul, Medical Director at Practo, said, “Since the COVID-19 pandemic patients have become more aware and are taking heart health very seriously. According to the Indian heart association, India accounts for approximately 60% of the world’s heart disease burden. However, with easy access to quality healthcare facilitated through digital healthcare, young Indians are taking a more proactive approach to managing their heart health. The rise in cardiology related teleconsultation signifies the need and growing importance of digital healthcare to manage patient’s changing needs.”

Dr. Abhinav Chhabra, Consultant Cardiologist at Medanta the Medicity, Gurugram, Haryana, mentions, “As we approach a “Healthy & Fit Bharat”, our young generation should be the primary focus. With a rising prevalence of cardiovascular problems among young adults, we need to exercise greater caution. In the current era, teleconsultation platforms have played a significant role in raising awareness about cardiovascular health and providing treatment. Most queries come from young adults concerning issues such as chest pain and ECG/2D Echo findings, as they are now more health-conscious and proactive in self-care. As primary contacts, we assist them in obtaining immediate consultations and diagnoses.”

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) continue to be a major concern, responsible for nearly 17.9 million deaths each year globally.