At the backdrop of a rising number of youngsters succumbing to cardiac issues in Karnataka, private schools across the state have expressed concerns over a growing sedentary lifestyle among children.
Teachers and school managements have expressed that less than five percent of students are reportedly engaged in some physical activity, a basic requisite for good heart health.
On Friday, the Associated Managements of Primary and Secondary Schools in Karnataka said, “Across the schools surveyed opinion among teachers & managements, it was that over 95% of students are not actively involved in any of the physical exercises at home, even at schools’ Physical Training (PT) periods, despite clear timetables and provisions.”
They added that parents were in support of students skipping physical activities even in school citing tiredness post play. “Even when provided structured opportunities to engage in physical activity or play time, students avoid participation, and the interest towards cultural activities is also showing clear disinterest and withdrawal. This trend is fully supported by parents, who request exemptions for their children, citing ‘body pain’ or ‘fatigue’ – essentially reinforcing a culture of physical avoidance.”
D Shashi Kumar, general secretary, KAMS said, “Reports pertaining to the rise in Cardiac issues have raised concerns over the past couple of years. In a school-based observation, an alarming trend was brought to light: a growing number of children and adolescents facing serious health issues such as fatigue, low blood pressure, and even cardiac risks at an early age. While external causes are often speculated, such as post-COVID effects, it is essential to turn the focus inward: the root cause lies in unhealthy home environments and parenting patterns.
“One of the most common factors associated with cardiac issues is obesity. If this is not addressed early via lifestyle changes, it would have serious health implications at a later stage,” he said.
What private schools seek
- Parents must take accountability and ensure daily physical activities at home.
- Schools must not entertain casual exceptions from physical training classes unless supported by medical necessity.
- Early health education must begin at home, not after symptoms appear.
- Digital and food habits must be closely monitored and corrected as part of responsible parenting.
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Posted in News, States
