A state-appointed probe into the sudden deaths of 24 individuals in Hassan district during May–June 2024 has revealed a startling insight: auto and cab drivers accounted for nearly 30% of these cases. The deaths, many among young and middle-aged people, had triggered concerns over a possible health crisis.
The investigation, led by Dr. K.S. Ravindranath, Director of Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, examined if these deaths indicated a larger cardiac trend. Of the 24 deaths, 10 were confirmed heart attacks and 10 were classified as probable cardiac deaths based on symptoms and risk factors. Alcohol was a factor in 8 of these cases, while smoking was noted in 6.
Three victims had known heart conditions, including previous bypass, angioplasty, and cardiomyopathy. The remaining 4 deaths were due to non-cardiac causes—including kidney failure, accident, gastroenteritis, and suspected electrocution.
Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, while addressing the media, said that a year-on-year comparison did not show a spike in deaths. However, he acknowledged the pattern: 14 of the deceased were under 45, and many were auto and cab drivers, often living in Bengaluru but hailing from Hassan.
He cited occupational stress, poor diet, sedentary work, smoking, irregular sleep, and lack of exercise as key contributors.
Key recommendations:
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Mandatory autopsies for sudden out-of-hospital deaths
ECG machines and emergency meds at all PHCs and CHCs
CPR & AED training in schools, gyms, and public spaces
Regular cardiac screening for drivers
Meanwhile, Jayadeva hospitals reported a 20% rise in outpatient visits, driven by public anxiety over recent deaths. Dr. Ravindranath urged citizens not to panic but to get screened if symptomatic.