3 days ago
CMC Vellore doctor reveals the medical tests gym goers must take periodically to avoid heart attack risks
Benny Devassy, a runner from Thane, died after completing a half-marathon. The incident raises concerns about cardiac health checks before intense exercise. Recently, CMC Vellore Dr. Sudhir Kumar suggested health screenings, including lipid profiles and ECGs. He advises advanced tests for those with risk factors. Read on know more about it!
Tired of too many ads?
Remove Ads
Important health check-ups before hitting the gym
Tired of too many ads?
Remove Ads
Hemoglobin
Fasting blood sugar
Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c)
Fasting serum insulin
Lipid profile
Homocysteine
Vitamin B12
Vitamin D
Liver function tests
Creatinine
TSH (Thyroid function)
hs-CRP (High-sensitivity C-reactive protein)
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
Echocardiogram
Lipoprotein(a)
Apolipoprotein A1 (Apo-A1)
Apolipoprotein B (Apo-B)
Treadmill Stress Test (TMT)
CT Coronary Angiogram + Calcium Score
About Dr. Sudhir Kumar
A tragic incident on Sunday in Thane has started an important health conversation among fitness enthusiasts. Benny Devassy, a 56-year-old resident of Manpada and an avid runner, died just hours after completing a half-marathon organised by the Thane Municipal Corporation. While he showed no immediate signs of distress after finishing the 21-km race, he later complained of uneasiness, vomited after eating, and was declared dead at a hospital. His sudden passing has raised urgent questions about hidden cardiac risks, even among visibly fit the wake of this incident, Hyderabad-based neurologist Dr. Sudhir Kumar, known for his preventive health advocacy, has shared a comprehensive pre-exercise health checklist for individuals planning to take up strenuous physical activity. With over 26 years of clinical experience, Dr. Kumar underscores that many heart-related conditions can remain 'silent' until triggered by physical exertion, especially in people over 35.'Fitness does not always equal heart health,' Dr. Kumar warns, urging individuals to undergo periodic health screenings, even if they appear outwardly healthy. His checklist is divided into two categories: basic tests for all individuals, and advanced tests for those with pre-existing risk factors or abnormal Health Check-Up (Recommended for All Gym-Goers & Runners):Clinical examination (Heart rate, blood pressure, weight, BMI, waist circumference)'These tests are crucial to detect hidden metabolic or cardiovascular risks that could become fatal under physical stress,' Dr. Kumar Screening (For High-Risk Individuals):If you're over 40, have a family history of heart disease, or present abnormalities in basic tests, Dr. Kumar advises the following additional evaluations:He adds that these tests should be interpreted under the guidance of a qualified physician, and not used for Sudhir Kumar is a senior neurologist practicing at Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad. He began his career at the renowned Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore, and has treated thousands of patients with neurological and lifestyle-related disorders. From strokes and migraines to epilepsy and Parkinson's, his expertise spans a wide range of conditions. He is also active on social media, where he shares health tips and advocates for preventive medicine, especially in the context of modern lifestyle diseases.
