In a tragic incident, Sunjay Kapur, the ex-husband of Bollywood actor Karisma Kapoor, passed away after suffering a heart attack during a polo match in England. The 53-year-old businessman reportedly collapsed mid-game after complaining of chest pain, and could not be revived. His sudden death has left many in shock and shows how heart disease can strike without warning, even in those who follow a fit and active lifestyle.
Sunjay, known for his luxurious lifestyle, love for sports, and high-profile social circle, did not show any visible signs of heart attack. But this shocking incident reminds us that heart attacks can happen silently and sometimes fatally, especially in men over the age of 50.
Why heart attacks can be silent
Heart attacks are often called “silent killers” because the early signs are either mild or completely missed. According to a study published in the journal Circulation, nearly 45 per cent of all heart attacks are silent, which means that the person doesn’t feel any major symptoms at the time. These silent heart attacks are more common in men and older adults, and they often go undiagnosed until it’s too late.
Another study in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that people who suffer silent heart attacks are three times more likely to die from heart-related causes in the future.
What signs of heart attack to watch out for
You don’t have to experience extreme chest pain to be at risk. In fact, many people feel nothing more than general tiredness or slight discomfort. Here are some early signs of a possible heart issue:
- Feeling unusually tired or weak
- Shortness of breath during simple activities
- Mild chest discomfort or heaviness
- Light-headedness or dizziness
- Cold sweats
- Pain in areas like the arms, jaw, neck, or back
- Nausea or a sinking feeling in the stomach
These may not seem alarming at first, but if they persist, they could be your body’s way of warning you.
How to take care of your heart after 50
According to a global study published in The Lancet, lifestyle choices like smoking, poor diet, and lack of physical activity are major contributors to cardiovascular diseases. The risk increases with age, especially after 50, when blood vessels naturally stiffen and cholesterol levels rise.
Here are some easy ways to protect your heart:
- Get annual heart check-ups including blood pressure, cholesterol, and sugar tests.
- Stay active — walk, swim, do yoga, or any physical activity for at least 30 minutes daily.
- Eat a heart-friendly diet — more fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains.
- Avoid smoking and cut down on alcohol.
- Prioritise sleep and find ways to manage stress.
According to the World Health Organization, around 17.9 million people worldwide died of heart attacks and strokes in 2023, making up more than 30 per cent of all deaths globally. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data shows about 805,000 heart attacks occur annually in the US, and around 1 in 5 heart attacks are silent, meaning people don’t realize they’ve had one. The signs may be silent, but the risk is real and prevention is always better than cure.