Rajesh Rajendran, a 27-year-old Indian expatriate from Kerala working in the United Arab Emirates, experienced a sudden cardiac arrest while en route to LLH Hospital in Musaffah. Initially dismissing his chest pain as indigestion or acidity, he was surprised when his condition rapidly deteriorated near the hospital’s Emergency Department, leading to a collapse from cardiac arrest.

Emergency medical personnel promptly administered approximately 10 minutes of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) before performing an urgent 30-minute angioplasty procedure, successfully reviving him. Rajendran’s case was particularly notable because he had no prior health issues or common risk factors typically associated with heart attacks, such as hypertension, diabetes, or chronic kidney disease.

Medical experts identified smoking as the primary cause behind Rajendran’s cardiac event. Dr Arun, involved in his care, explained that smoking damages blood vessels, increases the likelihood of clot formation, and diminishes oxygen delivery to the heart. These effects can lead to sudden coronary artery blockage, even in young individuals without other health problems.

Rajendran had been a regular smoker, consuming about one pack of cigarettes daily for seven to eight years. He expressed disbelief at suffering such a serious cardiac event at a young age due to smoking. The experience served as a wake-up call, prompting him to quit smoking and adopt a healthier lifestyle.

“I am grateful to Dr Arun for giving me a second chance in life,” Rajendran said. “This experience has changed my perspective on health.” His case highlights the significant cardiovascular risks posed by smoking, underscoring the importance of lifestyle choices even among young, otherwise healthy adults.