A recent inquiry into a concerning number of sudden deaths in the Hassan district of Karnataka, India, has found no evidence of a surge in heart attacks. However, the investigation has prompted the state government to mandate autopsies for all sudden, unexplained deaths occurring outside of hospitals in individuals under the age of 45. This decision aims to better understand the causes of these fatalities and implement preventative measures.

Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao released the investigation report, stating that while there was no unusual spike in cardiac deaths in Hassan, the number of young adults (below 45 years) dying from heart attacks remains a concern. The expert committee, led by Dr. K.S. Raveendranath, Director of Jayadeva Heart Institute, analyzed 24 deaths that occurred in Hassan during May and June 2025. The committee determined that four of these deaths were not cardiac-related, resulting from causes such as chronic kidney disease, a road accident, acute gastroenteritis, and suspected electrocution. Of the remaining 20 deaths, ten were confirmed as cardiac deaths, with three individuals having pre-existing heart conditions. The other ten deaths were classified as probable cardiac deaths based on the deceased's presentation, risk factors, and symptoms.

The investigation also highlighted potential risk factors and the need for systemic improvements. Six of the 20 deaths were of auto and cab drivers, a group that appears to be at high risk. The risk factors for this group may include sedentary lifestyles, eating outside food, lack of sleep, pollution, smoking, and alcoholism. The investigation emphasized the necessity of improving emergency response protocols, establishing mandatory post-mortem guidelines for sudden deaths, and enhancing community engagement during investigations.

In response to these findings, the Karnataka government is implementing several preventive measures. These include mandatory autopsies for sudden deaths, the launch of cardiac screening programs in schools for students from Class 10 onwards, and annual health check-ups for all government employees. The government will also encourage similar screenings in private offices, industries, and institutions. Lifestyle education modules will be integrated into the school curriculum to promote awareness of physical activity, screen time, and healthy eating habits. The state health department has also decided to declare sudden deaths as a notifiable disease. This means that all such deaths outside hospitals must be reported to the government.

The expert committee was formed in February 2025, following public concern and speculation about an increase in sudden cardiac deaths among young individuals, particularly in the post-COVID-19 period. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah commissioned the study to determine whether vaccines or long-term effects of COVID-19 were contributing factors. The study found a 4-5% increase in heart attack cases among those under 45, but concluded that these were linked to lifestyle factors such as obesity, smoking, diabetes, and sedentary habits, and not to COVID-19 vaccines or the infection itself. The committee found no association between premature cardiovascular disease and prior history of COVID-19 infection or vaccination.

The government's actions reflect a commitment to understanding and addressing the underlying causes of sudden deaths, particularly among young adults. By mandating autopsies and implementing preventative measures, the Karnataka government aims to reduce the number of premature cardiac deaths and promote healthier lifestyles.