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Rakesh Roshan, senior actor and director, recently had a close brush with death. Aged 74, he did not experience any of the typical symptoms. But a regular health check-up picked up something odd, a 75% narrowing of one of his carotid arteries. These are the arteries that carry blood to the brain. He immediately underwent surgery and is now recovering nicely.
The ordeal left such a lasting impression on him that he's encouraging others, particularly those 45 and older, to have routine heart and brain screenings. Why? Because this quiet condition can become lethal if overlooked.
"Saved from a Potentially Dangerous Health Scare": Rakesh Roshan
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The director broke the news to fans in an Instagram post. In it, he stated, "Rescued from a potentially life-threatening health scare… a 75% blockage of the carotid artery was discovered in time. Encouraging all adults aged 45 and over to have regular health check-ups. You never know what's happening inside."
He also shared a picture of himself, smiling and recovering post-surgery. Friends, celebrities, and fans filled the comments section with get-well wishes. But the true message of the post was evident: don't overlook preventive health care.
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What Is Carotid Artery Blockage?![2 - 2025-07-23T115616.697]( "Carotid Artery Blockage rakesh roshan")
Carotid arteries are two big blood vessels on either side of your head and neck. They carry blood to your brain. When the arteries are blocked with fatty deposits or plaque, it is known as carotid artery disease.
If the blockage increases, the chance of having a stroke is increased. A stroke occurs when blood cannot flow to the brain correctly, which can lead to brain damage, disability, or even death. What causes the blockage?
- High cholesterol
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Lack of physical exercise
- Unhealthy diet
Carotid Artery Blockage Symptoms and Tests![1 - 2025-07-23T115614.615]( "Carotid Artery Blockage test")
Sometimes, the symptoms aren't obvious. A lot of people don't notice anything until the blockage is really bad. That's why screenings after age 45 can save your life.
After age 40, your blood vessels naturally begin to undergo changes. Lifestyle factors, family history, and illness contribute to making matters worse. That is why physicians frequently suggest annual examinations after age 45, such as for heart and brain health.
Tests often include:
- Carotid ultrasound: A quick, painless scan that tests blood flow in the neck
- Blood pressure and cholesterol screening
- ECG or stress test: To check on your heart
- Brain scans, especially if you’ve had symptoms like dizziness or memory issues
- Early detection can prevent stroke, heart disease, or even sudden death, just like in Rakesh Roshan’s case.
A JAMA Neurology study points out the value of carotid artery disease screening. Routine screening in individuals over 50, particularly those at high risk, caught severe artery blockage before symptoms showed. Early treatment in most instances prevented the condition from causing a stroke. This indicates just how much difference simple health checks can make—and how many lives they can save.
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Final Thoughts
Rakesh Roshan's experience is a reminder that not everything that ails you will warn you in advance. At times, your body does not send signals until it is too late. But frequent check-ups can detect underlying issues. If you are 45 or older, or have conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes, you should discuss with your physician screening for your brain and heart. A quick scan or test may save you from a larger issue in the future.