Sudden deaths due to cardiac arrest during gyming, workout: Punjab health minister issues advisory

The minister said that the initiative was a part of Punjab government’s larger mission, “Swasth Punjab – Surakshit Punjab”, and a significant step “toward creating a safe, health-conscious environment for the state’s youth where fitness doesn’t come at the cost of life.”

Dr Balbir Singh expressed serious concerns 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.

He said that the concept of the advisory took shape during his discussion with the PAU Vice-Chancellor Dr Satbir Singh Gosal and renowned cardiologist Dr Bishav Mohan from DMCH, and a study was undertaken understand the issue.

“The study revealed that in many such cases, the individuals had not undergone 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 analyzed air quality inside gyms and discovered that poor ventilation and indoor air pollution could also contribute to sudden health emergencies,” said the minister.

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.

The advisory recommends that gym-goers and athletes should warm up properly and cool down before and after exercise respectively, 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.