Ludhiana runs for Dil ki Daud' mini marathon

On the occasion of World Heart Day, Satguru Partap Singh (SPS) Apollo Hospitals today organized the "Dil ki Daud" - a mini marathon at Guru Nanak Stadium, Ludhiana, to encourage and motivate people to make their heart healthy and to emphasize the importance of a healthy lifestyle.

More than 2500 people from across the region including leading professional athletes from across India, senior citizens, general public, corporates, patients, doctors and hospital associates participated in the marathon that was flagged off by Padmashree S. Pargat Singh, the Director of Sports Punjab, MLA and ex-olympian.

"We received overwhelming response and support from the residents of Ludhiana, corporate partners, industry, students from colleges and our staff. With over 2500 people participating in this mini marathon, Dil Ki Daud, was a success in raising awareness amongst people. The marathon intended to motivate individuals to take necessary steps towards a healthy heart," said Jugdiep Singh, the Managing Director of SPS Apollo Hospitals.

Students from AISEC, volunteers from Billion Hearts Beating Foundation, employees from corporates including Coca Cola, Bonn Breads, Radiant Toyota, Ralson India, Uniparts Group, Hyatt Hotels, Mondelez, Cremica to name a few took part in this marathon.

Close to 100 doctors along with their families from SPS Apollo Hospitals also ran for this important cause. All the participants believed that there is huge need for such events to generate awareness among the masses about how to keep their heart healthy.

There were 5 categories for participation in the 5 km run, for men and women in age group of 18- 40 years and above 40 years. All runners were felicitated with participation certificates, attractive prizes and medals.

Dr.Pawan K Suri, the senior consultant, Department of Interventional Cardiology, reiterated the importance of keeping the heart healthy through a disciplined lifestyle including good, balanced diets and regular exercise.

By 2015, 60% of the world's cardiac patients will be Indians. Recent health reports have shown that Indians are four times more likely to suffer a heart attack than their western counterparts owing to genetic and lifestyle related factors.

In India 60% of patients suffer from acute coronary syndrome, as compared to 40% in the developed world.