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GPHC’s lead cardiologist sounds alarm over rise in heart-related deaths among young people
…urges early, regular check ups
(Kaieteur News) – Head of Internal Medicine and Cardiology at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), Dr. Mahendra Carpen has expressed concern over the rise in cardiac related deaths among young people.
In a post shared via his personal Facebook page, Dr. Carpen noted that in the past few months, there has been a devastating recognition of persons in the 20 to 40 age range who have died unexpectedly.
According to Carpen, many of these persons die in their sleep or while doing routine, normal activities.
Head of Internal Medicine and Cardiology at GPHC, Dr. Mahendra Carpen.
He said, “There are many reasons for this terrible outcome, however cardiovascular disease remains the number one cause.”
“In Guyana, the younger populations are showing an increase in serious heart disease, not just from blockage, but also from weakened heart muscles due to inflammation/infection and complications of uncontrolled hypertension/diabetes/cholesterol as well as bad habits like smoking.”
The cardiologist explained that the sudden cardiac death is an electrical malfunction phenomenon that occurs in the heart and manifested as an abnormal heart rhythm which can lead to death.
Dr. Carpen noted that the underlying cause is usually blockage in the majority of cases, however other conditions such as inflammation and infection of the heart muscle, severe uncontrolled hypertension, enlarged and stiffened heart muscles as well as some inherited conditions.
He cautioned the population to beware of chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, or lightheadedness.
“These can be early warnings. More importantly, if you notice a reduction in the things you are able to do without getting tired or fatigued, you should have yourself checked out. This is subtle and less dramatic, but important to recognise.”
The doctor called on the public particularly the younger populace to know the triggers/causes, get checked early and regularly for heart disease.
During a previous interview with a local podcast, Dr. Carpen had doubled down on the need for early screening.
He had explained that early detection allows individuals to manage risk factors before severe heart disease develops.
He noted that tackling cardiovascular disease in Guyana needs teamwork from government policy, healthcare spending and personal lifestyle choices.
He urged the public to embrace early screening and preventative care, while emphasising that continued expansion of specialised medical facilities will ensure the country is equipped to treat even the most severe cases.
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