Dr. Dmitry Yaranov, an advanced heart failure specialist widely followed as heart_transplant-doc on social media, recently posted an Instagram reel warning that a common daily habit, specifically daily cannabis use, can double the risk of heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death, particularly among younger adults.
The post sparked widespread debate and drew responses from medical authorities including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Indian Medical Association (IMA), who both called for greater public awareness about hidden lifestyle risks affecting heart health.
Morning Habits and Elevated Heart Attack Risk
In the viral Instagram post from September 2025, Dr. Yaranov explains that routine choices like daily use of cannabis, as well as inconsistent medication schedules, can leave the heart especially vulnerable during early morning hours when dangerous surges in blood pressure and stress hormones occur.
“Your highest risk is in the early morning hours, while you’re still in bed,” he cautions in another post, referencing studies that show cortisol spikes, blood vessel tightening, and blood pressure surges can trigger fatal cardiac events in those with unprotected or untreated conditions.
The cardiologist urges followers: “If you skip doses, if you take meds at inconsistent times, your body’s defences aren’t ready for that morning surge,” underscoring that “sometimes, the first symptom is the last”.
Societal Wake-Up Call: Beyond the Usual Suspects
Dr. Yaranov’s message disrupts common notions that only traditional vices like tobacco and alcohol are culprits, pointing to new research linking daily cannabis use and other seemingly harmless routines to major heart risks.
He also highlights that factors such as poor sleep, neglected oral health, air pollution, stress, and lack of access to fresh foods contribute to rising cardiovascular incidents even among young and otherwise healthy populations.
National guidelines from the WHO now target a significant reduction in inactivity and recommend that adults reduce all risk behaviours, especially during the “danger window” of 7–11 am.
Expert Advice
Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj, Director of Cardiovascular Precision Medicine, supports Dr. Yaranov’s warnings and offers practical advice for safeguarding the heart. He recommends:
- Hydrate immediately after waking to counter overnight dehydration.
- Always take prescribed medications on a strict schedule, especially for blood pressure and cholesterol.
- Avoid caffeine on an empty stomach and opt for a protein-rich breakfast.
- Incorporate 10–15 minutes of stretching, walking, or light activity before beginning any strenuous tasks.
Dr. Bhojraj also urges everyone, especially those with risk factors, to keep a regular sleep schedule, prioritise stress management, and stay vigilant about “hidden” lifestyle habits that can undermine heart health.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The Logical Indian believes this viral warning from Dr. Yaranov emphasises the power of knowledge and community-driven health. It is no longer enough to avoid obvious dangers, a truly heart-healthy routine addresses all habits, known and unknown, with compassion and intention.
