Punjab government launches health advisory to prevent sudden cardiac arrest among gym goers and sportspersons

Time of India

07-08-2025

LUDHIANA: With the rising number of sudden deaths during gym workouts and sports activities, the Punjab government has taken a step to safeguard the lives of its youth. In a "first," Punjab Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh on Thursday unveiled a joint Health Advisory in an event titled 'Prevention of Sudden Cardiac Arrest Among Gym Goers and Sportspersons.
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As per an official statement, the initiative, a collaboration among PAU, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (GADVASU), and Dayanand Medical College and Hospital (DMCH), seeks to educate and safeguard those who push their physical limits in gyms and sports arenas. It added that this initiative is part of Punjab government's "larger mission," "Swasth Punjab – Surakshit Punjab," and stands as a step toward creating a safe, health-conscious environment for the state's youth—one where fitness doesn't come at the cost of life.
In his address, the health minister expressed concern over the rising health risks among fitness-conscious youth and emphasised the need for timely awareness and regulation. He stated that sudden cardiac arrests during exercise or sports are not mere accidents but often the result of undiagnosed medical conditions, unregulated dietary choices, and unchecked supplement use. Dr Balbir Singh added that today's high-pressure lifestyle, unhealthy diets, and lack of medical screenings are putting our young generation at serious risk—even when they appear physically fit.
The health minister further recalled that the concept of the advisory took root during his discussion with the PAU Vice-Chancellor Dr Satbir Singh Gosal and Dr Bishav Mohan from DMCH.
The minister appreciated how swiftly the universities and medical experts responded. He opined that the poster was not just a document but a lifesaving guide crafted through collaboration, scientific reasoning, and empathy for the youth.
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The study revealed that in many such cases, the individuals did not undergo any medical fitness screening before starting intense exercise routines. Further testing showed that several victims were using unsafe supplements, energy drinks, and performance enhancers that had harmful effects on their heart and liver. Experts also analysed air quality inside gyms and discovered that poor ventilation and indoor air pollution could also contribute to sudden health emergencies.
The advisory recommends that gym-goers and athletes properly warm up and cool down before and after exercise, undergo regular health screenings, use only certified and tested supplements, and strictly avoid energy drinks or steroid-based products. Special attention has been given to the rising trend of 'quick-result' supplements, which are often consumed without medical advice and pose serious health threats.
Recognising the importance of emergency response, the Health Department has also "launched" a state-wide initiative to train gym users, trainers, and young athletes in CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) and Basic Life Support (BLS). These life-saving skills are now being taught directly inside gyms and sports centres across Punjab, ensuring that timely action can be taken during emergencies.
PAU Vice-Chancellor Dr Satbir Singh Gosal termed the poster a 'health capsule' distilled from rigorous expert consultation spread over a series of meetings with the experts.
He said the initiative proved that PAU's role transcends agriculture; it's equally committed to the physical and mental well-being of its students and the wider community.
GADVASU Vice-Chancellor Dr Jatinder Paul Singh Gill lauded the openness with which experts from cardiology, nephrology, gastroenterology, and nutrition debated complex health concerns for the Health Advisory.
Principal of DMCH and cardiologist, Dr Gurpreet Singh Wander, hoped that the advisory would find a place in gyms, training centres, and colleges across the state, inspiring other districts to emulate the model.
Renowned cardiologist Dr Bishav Mohan from DMCH underscored the urgency of the message. He stated that most gym-related cardiac arrests stem from preventable missteps. A basic understanding of body limits, pre-workout screenings, hydration, and rest cycles can make the difference between health and hazard.
Director Health Dr Hitinder Kaur, Civil Surgeon Dr Ramandeep Kaur, besides several others, were also present on the occasion. Earlier, a newly established gymnasium with financial support from the Punjab government was also inaugurated by the health minister.