KMCH observed World Heart Day 2026, “Healthy Heart for a Healthier Tomorrow,” at its Multispeciality Hospital in Sulur on Tuesday.
The Chief Guest, Dr. Arun N. Palaniswami, Executive Director, KMCH, presided over the event and delivered the special address.
In his address, Dr. Arun N. Palaniswami emphasised the importance of early detection and regular monitoring of blood pressure and diabetes. He said that nearly half of the people with hypertension and diabetes may remain undiagnosed. If these conditions are left undetected and untreated, they can lead to heart-related complications later in life.
He stressed the need for people to know their blood pressure and blood sugar levels at an early stage and take appropriate measures to manage them. “If we are aware of these conditions and manage them properly, we can lead a healthy and happy life. That is the important message for today – healthy and happy,” he said.
Don’t Ignore Heartburn
-Dr. Sivabal, Consultant Interventional Cardiologist, KMCH
Dr. Sivabal said that this year’s observance carries the message of “Varumun Kappom”, emphasising the importance of preventing heart disease before it occurs.
“First and foremost, we should take steps to prevent a heart attack. For this, it is important to maintain proper blood sugar and cholesterol levels, with LDL cholesterol ideally kept below 100 mg/dL, along with maintaining a healthy body weight,” he said.
He urged people not to ignore symptoms such as a burning sensation in the chest or pain extending from the throat to the stomach by assuming that they are merely symptoms of gastric problems. “If you experience such pain, you should immediately visit a hospital and undergo an ECG. If the cause is not identified through the ECG, further investigations may be required,” he said.
He added that people who are overweight or have hypertension or diabetes and experience pain extending from the throat to the stomach should seek medical attention promptly. Depending on the clinical assessment, further cardiac evaluation, including an angiogram, may be advised.
Dr. Sivabal urged everyone to regularly monitor their blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol levels and to undergo appropriate cardiac health check-ups to assess the health of their heart.
As part of the celebrations, a special signature campaign was organised. Dr. Arun N. Palaniswami inaugurated the campaign by signing the signature board, followed by the hospital’s heads, doctors, nurses and staff, who also signed the board to mark their commitment towards heart health. 
Dr. Karppagavalli, Consultant Nephrologist and Transplant Physician at KMCH, welcomed the gathering.
Dr. Rajavelu, Medical Director, and Dr. Sivabal, Consultant Interventional Cardiologist, delivered special addresses, highlighting the importance of heart health and preventive care.
Patients who had recovered from cardiac ailments also shared their experiences and journeys at KMCH. They spoke about the care, treatment and support extended by the hospital and its medical team, and expressed their gratitude to KMCH for helping them regain their health.
Dr Kiruthika, Consultant Obstetrics & Gynaecology, proposed the vote of thanks.
