Peeche Dekho Peeche Actor Loses Brother to Cardiac Arrest – A Wake-Up Call for Parents About Children’s Heart Health

Do you remember the “Peeche Toh Dekho” viral Pakistani boy Ahmad Shah? His one line turned into a meme and made millions laugh. His mischievous expressions and adorable personality brought joy far beyond borders.

Ahmad is right now facing a heartbreak moment. His younger brother, Umer Shah, who was just 15 years old, passed away after suffering a sudden cardiac arrest.

The tragedy has raised questions about an important topic - children’s heart health.

Who Was Umer Shah?

Umer had created his own place in people’s hearts through TV shows like Jeeto Pakistan and Shan-e-Ramazan on ARY Digital.

The Shah brothers became a familiar duo on screens and social media. Their playful videos and appearances showed a close sibling bond that was full of laughter and innocence. But that bond has now been cut short, leaving Ahmad devastated.

It was just last year that these brothers lost their younger sister, Ayesha. She also passed away due to health complications in 2023.

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Understanding Cardiac Arrest in Children and Teens

Cardiac arrest happens when the heart suddenly stops pumping blood due to an electrical malfunction. It is different from a heart attack. Heart attack usually occurs because of blocked arteries. In cardiac arrest, the collapse is sudden. The survival depends heavily on immediate medical response.

In young people, cardiac arrest can sometimes be linked to many factors.

·       Undiagnosed congenital heart defects

·       Irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias)

·       Genetic conditions

·       Lifestyle issues like obesity and high cholesterol

Warning Signs Parents

Some symptoms should not be ignored in young children

·       If you notice the child frequently fainting during playtime

·       A sudden chest pain during activity

·       Shortness of breath but not linked to asthma

·       Extremely fast or irregular heartbeat

·       There is a family history of sudden cardiac death

Lifestyle Matters, Even for Kids

Today’s children often spend more time in front of screens than outdoors. Fast food, sugary drinks and unwanted study pressure also add on.

• Parents can encourage children to play outside for at least an hour daily.
• Promote a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, and home-cooked meals.
• Ensure children get 9 to 10 hours of sleep.
• Limit screen time.
• Schedule regular health check-ups, especially if there is a family history of heart issues.

The Role of Awareness and CPR

In cardiac arrest, survival largely depends on how quickly help is given in the first few minutes. In many countries, CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) training is common. Studies have shown better survival rates at such places.

What is CPR

It’s an emergency lifesaving technique. It is done when someone stops breathing.

CPR usually involves two key steps:

1. Pressing hard and fast in the centre of the chest to keep blood circulating.
2. Giving breaths by mouth or a barrier device to provide oxygen.

CPR helps in keeping the blood flow to the brain and other parts till the patient gets medical assistance.

Sometimes, just being prepared can save someone's life!