India, Dec. 2 -- When it comes to heart health, many people adopt habits they assume are protective - popping an aspirin just because they're getting older, cutting out salt despite having no underlying heart condition, or panicking over every fluctuation in blood pressure. But these well-intentioned practices can backfire, especially when they distract from proper assessments such as comprehensive blood work and accurate cardiovascular risk evaluation.

Highlighting the importance of evidence-based habits, Dr Dmitry Yaranov, a cardiologist and heart-transplant specialist with expertise in advanced heart failure and mechanical circulatory support, has shared 10 habits he has personally given up for the sake of his heart health. In an Inst...