Mysore/Mysuru: Lok Sabha Member and renowned cardiologist Dr. C.N. Manjunath has opined that, in the present scenario, air pollution poses a greater threat to human health than smoking.

He was speaking after inaugurating a two-day National Conference titled ‘Samyojanam-2025,’ organised jointly by Karnataka State Open University (KSOU), Sushrutha Srushti Ayurveda Medical College and Hospital, and Vishwa Ayurveda Parishat at KSOU’s Mukthagangothri campus in city on Friday.

A handbook on ‘Samyojanam-2025’ was also released on the occasion.

“Air pollution not only causes respiratory problems but also triggers serious health issues such as heart attacks, heart failure and diabetes. It is estimated that while 14 lakh people die annually due to smoking, 22 lakh people succumb to illnesses caused by air pollution in India. It has therefore become imperative to take all precautionary measures to curb this menace,” said the eminent cardiologist.

Synergy among medicine systems

Emphasising the need for synergy among different systems of medicine, Dr. Manjunath said each discipline should complement the other. “If all medical systems adopt scientific practices, they can together become far more effective. India is currently battling metabolic and lifestyle-related diseases. Owing to unhygienic conditions, environmental pollution and industrial waste, we are consuming micro quantities of toxins through food and water,” he noted.

“India today leads in health tourism and it is encouraging that the AYUSH systems of medicine are attracting more international patients than even the allopathic system,” he added.

Heart attacks, strokes

Expressing concern over the increasing number of heart attacks among the youth, Dr. Manjunath pointed out that heart attacks and brain strokes together account for about 30 percent of deaths in India.

“Heart attacks are now being reported among people below 40 years of age due to poor diet and sedentary lifestyles. Sitting in one place for four to five hours is equivalent to smoking five cigarettes. We must all strive to live a healthy, disease-free life for at least 80 years,” he said.

Suttur Seer Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Swamiji, former High Court Judge B.A. Patil, S-Vyasa University Vice-Chancellor Dr. N.K. Manjunatha Sharma, GSS Yoga Foundation Founder Srihari Dwarakanath, S-Vyasa Society Chairman Dr. H.R. Nagendra, Vishwa Ayurveda Parishad President Dr. B.R. Ramakrishna, KSOU Vice-Chancellor Sharanappa V. Halse and VAP National Executive Committee Member Dr. Yogesh Chandramitra were present.