Tragic death of Chennai doctor from heart attack raises concerns: Experts say heart-boosting exercises for high-stress careers can save lives

The sudden death of Dr. Gradlin Roy, a 39-year-old consultant cardiac surgeon has brought the hidden dangers of high-stress professions into sharp focus. Dr. Roy collapsed during hospital rounds and despite immediate medical intervention, could not be saved. His passing has sent shockwaves through India’s medical community, highlighting how long hours, stress, and neglected self-care can have fatal consequences.

Doctors, often considered the ultimate caretakers of health, are particularly vulnerable. According to Dr. Sudhir Kumar, a CMC Vellore-trained neurologist, prolonged working hours, irregular meals, constant stress, and missed check-ups contribute to rising cases of sudden cardiac arrests among young medical professionals. He stressed that this is not an isolated tragedy but part of a disturbing trend seen across India.

Aerobic Exercise: Small Sessions, Big Impact
According to British Heart Foundation, even in demanding work environments, aerobic exercise can significantly improve heart health. Helen Alexander, a physiotherapist specializing in cardiac rehabilitation at Nuffield Health at St Bartholomew's Hospital, recommends activities that engage large muscle groups—walking, cycling, swimming, or even household chores. 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week helps improve circulatory function, lower blood pressure, and maintain healthy cholesterol levels

For professionals like doctors, nurses, and corporate employees working 12–18 hours a day, these sessions can be broken into short, manageable increments. Even 5 to 10 minutes of brisk walking or light cycling multiple times a day can yield cardiovascular benefits.


Strength Training: Protecting the Heart by Building Muscle
Resistance exercises, including chair squats, wall push-ups, or using resistance bands, strengthen muscles so the heart does not need to work as hard. Alexander advises performing strength training 2 to 3 times a week, ensuring at least one day of recovery between sessions. She emphasizes avoiding breath-holding during exercises, as it can increase blood pressure.

Doctors working long shifts often lack time for structured workouts. Yet even short, focused resistance exercises during breaks can reduce cardiac strain and improve overall stamina, making daily work less taxing.

Flexibility and Balance: Preventing Injury While Easing Stress
Yoga, pilates, and tai chi are effective for improving flexibility and balance. Simple stretches after walking or brief balance exercises, such as standing on one leg while holding a counter, can reduce the risk of injury and improve mobility. Alexander notes that flexibility exercises should be performed 2 to 3 times a week, holding stretches for 30 seconds without causing pain or strain.

An Urgent Lesson
The death of Dr. Roy echoes a larger global concern. According to the World Health Organization and International Labour Organization, working 55 hours or more per week significantly increases the risk of stroke and heart disease. In 2016 alone, long working hours were linked to nearly 745,000 deaths worldwide, a 29% increase since 2000.

Practical Advice for Busy Professionals
Experts recommend:

• Breaking aerobic exercise into short daily sessions
• Performing 2 to 3 resistance training sessions weekly
• Incorporating flexibility and balance exercises into daily routines
• Ensuring regular check-ups for blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes
• Prioritizing at least seven hours of sleep whenever possible
• Practicing stress-reduction techniques like yoga or meditation
• Learning to say no to non-urgent work to protect long-term health

As Alexander points out, “Whatever your heart or circulatory condition, you’ll have something to gain from exercise. Even small, consistent efforts improve your heart’s efficiency and overall wellbeing”.

The tragic loss of young professionals like Dr. Roy is a stark reminder that preventive care and regular physical activity are essential. For those in high-pressure careers, exercise is not a luxury—it is a critical safeguard for both personal and professional longevity.