Kottayam: Cardiac diseases remain the leading cause of mortality worldwide, Health Minister Veena George said on Monday, during the silver jubilee celebrations of Hridayapoorvam, the cardiac health program initiated by Malayala Manorama and Madras Medical Mission.

The minister highlighted the growing challenges in cardiac care, emphasising the high costs and treatment complexities that often make it inaccessible to the general public. "This requires intervention at both the scientific and policy levels. Through Hridayapoorvam, Malayala Manorama has created an exemplary platform for such interventions," she noted.

She also pointed out that lifestyle diseases are a major health issue in Kerala, revealing that 38 per cent of the state's population suffers from hypertension. The minister praised the state government's efforts to address these diseases and highlighted the progress made in cardiac care over the last 25 years. "Thanks to Hridayapoorvam, over 2,500 people have received life-saving support," she added.

The minister also mentioned the Hridyam project, launched by the state government to ensure children's cardiac health.

During the event, Malayala Manorama Director Harsha Mathew honoured paramedical staff from the Madras Medical Mission for their contribution to the Hridayapoorvam initiative. The panel discussion focused on congenital heart diseases in children, with experts Dr Sreeja Pavithran and Dr Ravi Agarwal sharing their insights.

Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar inaugurated the celebrations at Mammen Mappillai Hall, with Dr Tessy Thomas, India's "Missile Woman" and Vice Chancellor of Noorul Islam University, presiding. The Governor also honoured doctors involved in free heart check-up camps.

The celebrations also included a cultural evening and a photo exhibition showcasing heart check-up camp moments. A marathon across all districts in Kerala on Sunday marked the commencement of the jubilee celebrations.