Rakesh Roshan’s health update reveals a 75% blockage in his carotid arteries discovered during a routine checkup. Learn why preventive health screenings save lives.
Veteran Bollywood filmmaker Rakesh Roshan has shared an important health update that’s not just about him—it’s a wake-up call for all of us. The 74-year-old, known for blockbuster hits like Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai and Koi Mil Gaya, recently underwent angioplasty after doctors discovered a worrying blockage in his carotid arteries during a routine checkup.
In his first post after the procedure, Rakesh Roshan revealed how the discovery came about and why he now urges everyone over 45 to make preventive health screenings a priority.
Rakesh Roshan’s Health Update: A Life-Saving Routine Checkup
Taking to Instagram, Roshan posted a photo from his hospital room, smiling warmly as he interacted with his medical team. In his caption, he wrote:
“This week has been truly eye-opening. The physician performing the cardiac sonography recommended that I also perform one for the neck as part of a standard physical examination. By chance, we found out that although asymptomatic, both my carotid arteries to the brain were above 75% blocked. Which, if ignored, could be potentially dangerous.”
Luckily, Roshan had no symptoms. But the blockage in his carotid arteries—critical vessels that supply blood to the brain—could have led to a stroke if left undetected. He had a preventative operation and was brought to the hospital right away.
“I am back home now, fully recovered, and hope to get back to my workouts very soon. I hope this inspires others to stay on top of their health, especially where the heart and brain are concerned,” he added in his post.
Why Carotid Artery Blockages Are So Dangerous
The carotid arteries are two major blood vessels in the neck that carry oxygen-rich blood to the brain, face, and neck. Plaque accumulation within these arteries causes the route to constrict, which lowers blood flow. This condition, called carotid artery disease, is often silent until it’s too late—leading to dizziness, headaches, blurred vision, or even a stroke.
Roshan’s case shows how important it is to catch these issues early, even when there are no visible symptoms.
What Doctors Say About Preventive Screenings
Health experts agree with Rakesh Roshan’s health update on the importance of preventive checkups.
Dr. Sandeep Seth, professor of cardiology at AIIMS, New Delhi, explains, “We don’t recommend CT angiograms for everyone, but in Indian men over 40, genetic risks make it crucial to monitor health closely. Managing diabetes, high blood pressure, cholesterol, obesity, and even vitamin D levels is key.”
Low vitamin D can interfere with calcium regulation, inflammation, and blood pressure, increasing heart risks.
Dr. Nishith Chandra from Fortis Escorts Heart Institute adds, “Symptoms like sudden dizziness, headache, blurry vision, and loss of balance could signal a blockage. High-risk individuals may need procedures like carotid endarterectomy or angioplasty with stenting.”
Lifestyle Changes That Can Save Your Life
While medical screenings can detect problems, lifestyle changes remain the best preventive measure. Here’s what experts recommend:
Maintain a healthy weight through balanced nutrition.
Exercise regularly to keep your heart and arteries strong.
Monitor and control blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure.
Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake.
If necessary, take a vitamin D pill and check your levels.
Roshan himself now advocates for including heart CT scans and carotid artery sonography in routine checkups for anyone over 45 or 50.
After Rakesh Roshan’s health update, many Bollywood celebrities flooded his post with love and encouragement. Anil Kapoor reacted with fire and fist emojis, while Tiger Shroff commented, “Looking great, sir.” Suniel Shetty and Sussanne Khan also shared heartfelt emojis wishing him a speedy recovery.
The Takeaway From Rakesh Roshan’s Health Update
Rakesh Roshan’s health update isn’t just a personal story—it’s a crucial reminder for all of us. Silent conditions like carotid artery blockages often go unnoticed until they cause severe damage. Regular preventive checkups and a healthy lifestyle are your best defense.
As Roshan puts it, “Stay on top of your health, especially where the heart and brain are concerned.” His experience is proof that taking action early can save lives.