As cardiovascular diseases remain a leading health concern across Asia, Dr. Anika Rao, a cardiologist at Singapore General Hospital, explains practical steps to protect heart health this year. "High blood pressure silently damages arteries, increasing risks of heart attacks and strokes," she warns, urging regular checkups for those over 40.
Dr. Rao emphasizes keeping nitroglycerin or prescribed medications accessible for individuals with existing heart conditions: "Every second counts during cardiac emergencies." She also highlights advancements in wearable tech, noting that "2026 smartwatches can detect irregular heart rhythms with 92% accuracy, providing critical early warnings."
Key recommendations include reducing sodium intake, prioritizing 150 minutes of weekly exercise, and avoiding tobacco. "Prevention is cheaper than treatment," she concludes, urging governments to expand public health campaigns ahead of World Heart Day in September.
