Prashant Tamang, winner of Indian Idol Season 3, who later featured in Paatal Lok 2 as Daniel Lecho and was set to star in Salman Khan’s Battle of Galwan, passed away in his sleep due to a cardiac arrest on Sunday, January 11, 2026.
His wife ruled out any foul play saying it was a ‘natural death’ and that “he was in his sleep when he left us,” adding she was right beside him at the time. Tamang, 43, had no known health issues. His sudden demise has sent shockwaves through his fans and the film industry.
Cases of heart attack in young are on rise due to a combination of factor from Long Covid to hidden heart problems. Financial Express.com spoke to cardiologists to understand the causes that may lead to sudden cardiac arrest after 40.
Why heart issues in young are on rise
“Heart attacks in the young are real and rising, particularly in South Asia. Smoking, dyslipidemia, diabetes, and family history are the most frequent modifiable drivers. Non-atherosclerotic causes must always be considered in young patients with MI and angiographically normal coronaries,” Dr Saurabh Chopra, Consultant -Cardiology, Fortis Hospital Manesar told Financial Express.com.
Dr Chopra says early screening and aggressive risk-factor modification are essential.
Among the risk factors are early onset type 2 diabetes, hypertension, elevated LDL, cholesterol, obesity, metabolic syndrome, sedentary lifestyle, and stress.
“Lifestyle factors leading to spurt in cases are sedentary lifestyle, poor dietary habits (high sugar, trans fats), chronic stress, anxiety, depression, sleep deprivation and obstructive sleep apnea, sudden intense physical exertion in untrained individuals,” adds the cardiologist.
Causes of sudden cardiac arrest in young people
Apart from lifestyle, there could be hidden heart issues or congenital conditions that can raise risk of sudden heart attacks.
“Sudden cardiac arrest in young people can happen due to several hidden heart problems. Some are born with heart conditions like abnormal heart structure or faulty electrical signals. Certain genetic disorders can cause dangerous heart rhythm problems without warning. Heart muscle diseases can make the heart weak or thick,” Dr. Sanjay Bhat, Sr. Consultant – Interventional Cardiology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru told Financial Express.com
The other factors could range from intense physical activity, use of steroids, and severe infections.
“Intense physical activity without proper health checks can trigger arrest in those with unknown issues. Use of drugs, steroids, or stimulants can increase risk. Severe infections or inflammation of the heart can also cause sudden arrest. In rare cases, severe stress or electrolyte imbalance may trigger it unexpectedly,” says Dr Bhat.
Underlying causes of sudden cardiac arrest in sleep
Sudden cardiac arrest during sleep can happen due to hidden heart problems that disturb the heart rhythm. Some people have undiagnosed heart rhythm disorders that become dangerous at night.
“Heart muscle diseases can weaken the heart and cause irregular beats. Reduced oxygen levels during sleep, especially in people with sleep apnea, can stress the heart,” explains Dr Bhat.
Silent heart attacks can also occur without warning signs. Certain medicines, alcohol, or drug use may affect heart rhythm during sleep. Electrolyte imbalance, severe infections, or genetic conditions can also trigger sudden cardiac arrest while sleeping.
Warning signs of heart issues after 40
After the age of 40, some warning signs can show early heart problems. Chest pain or pressure, especially during activity, should not be ignored.
“Shortness of breath while walking or climbing stairs can be a sign. Frequent fatigue, even with enough rest, may point to heart strain. Pain in the left arm, neck, jaw, or back can be related to the heart. Fast or irregular heartbeat can be a warning. Swelling in feet or ankles may signal poor circulation. Dizziness, nausea, or excessive sweating can also indicate heart trouble,” says the expert.
Why cardiac deaths are increasing in post Covid era
Dr Bhat says cardiac deaths are increasing in the post-Covid era for several reasons. Firstly, he says, Covid infection can damage the heart muscle and its blood vessels, which can make the heart weaker.
He noted that during pandemic many people delayed health checkups and treatment and as a result heart problems were not found early.
Ongoing inflammation due to long Covid can also be behind sudden cardiac arrests. The expert says stress, anxiety, and unhealthy habits like poor diet and less exercise during lockdowns have increased heart risk.
“Some patients developed blood clots after Covid, which can block heart arteries. Vaccination and better care help, but many survivors still face higher risk of heart issues,” says Dr Bhat.
Apart from heart issues, what other health issues can kill in sleep?
Apart from heart problems, severe breathing problems like sleep apnea can reduce oxygen levels and stop breathing, says the cardiologist.
“Stroke can occur suddenly at night without warning signs. Severe asthma attacks can block airways during sleep. Epilepsy can lead to sudden unexpected death during a seizure at night. Infections like severe pneumonia or sepsis can worsen while sleeping. Overdose of alcohol, medicines, or drugs can slow breathing dangerously. Blood clots in the lungs can block oxygen supply. Very low blood sugar in diabetics can also be life-threatening during sleep,” Dr Bhat said explaining health issues aside from cardiac arrest that can lead to mortality during sleep.
How to safeguard heart health
“After the age of 40, protecting heart health becomes very important. Eat a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and less salt and oil. Exercise regularly by walking, stretching, or doing light workouts for at least 30 minutes daily. Keep blood pressure, sugar, and cholesterol under control with regular checkups. Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake. Manage stress through relaxation, yoga, or meditation. Get enough sleep every night. Maintain a healthy weight and stay active. Take medicines as prescribed and do not ignore warning signs like chest pain or breathlessness,” advises Dr Bhat.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. While the author has incorporated expert medical guidance while producing the story and ensured full authentic information is provided to the reader, you should always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here.