A fit Dubai cyclist’s near-fatal heart attack is highlighting why regular exercise alone may not be enough to protect against hidden cardiovascular risks.
DUBAI: The experience of a 44-year-old cyclist who suffered a serious heart attack despite maintaining an active lifestyle has renewed calls in the UAE for regular cardiovascular checks and greater awareness of warning signs.
Godfrey Abello, a Filipino cyclist who worked at a Dubai bike shop, experienced sharp pain in his chest and arm while walking to work. Although a recent medical check had identified high cholesterol, he otherwise believed he was healthy and initially thought the discomfort was indigestion.
When the pain returned the following day, Abello went to Medcare Hospital in Al Safa, where doctors diagnosed an NSTEMI, a type of heart attack caused by reduced blood flow to part of the heart.
Emergency treatment saves his life
While in the emergency department, Abello became unresponsive and developed ventricular fibrillation, a dangerous heart rhythm that prevents the heart from pumping effectively.
Doctors performed CPR, administered two defibrillator shocks and rushed him for treatment to reopen a blocked coronary artery and insert a stent.
Eight months later, Abello has returned to work and changed his lifestyle, including introducing regular walking and paying closer attention to his health.
Fitness does not eliminate heart risk
His experience highlights an important concern for people who consider themselves fit. Regular physical activity can reduce cardiovascular risk, but hidden conditions such as high cholesterol, hypertension and diabetes can still develop without obvious symptoms.
Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi advises that cardiovascular screening can help identify risk factors including high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol and diabetes before they lead to more serious problems.
Doctors have also warned that heart attack symptoms can sometimes be confused with digestive problems. Chest pain, shortness of breath, sweating, nausea and lightheadedness are among signs that may require urgent medical attention.
Younger patients also affected
UAE hospitals are also seeing cardiovascular disease among younger adults. Data cited by The National from Aster Hospital in Mankhool showed that more than 35 per cent of cardiac catheterisation patients were under 50, highlighting the importance of understanding individual risk factors regardless of age or fitness level.
Impact to expect
Abello’s experience could encourage more UAE residents, including physically active adults, to include cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar checks in routine healthcare and to seek immediate medical attention when unexplained chest discomfort occurs.
