A tragic incident in Delhi has served as a grim warning about the severe health risks associated with excessive consumption of fast food. A 16-year-old Class 11 student died on Monday at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) after battling complications stemming from a severe intestinal infection, which doctors linked directly to her prolonged unhealthy eating habits.
From Stomach Pain to a Fatal Infection
The student, identified as Ahana, first complained of severe stomach pain on November 28. Her family rushed her to a hospital in Amroha, Uttar Pradesh. When her condition did not improve, she was referred to a facility in Moradabad.
Medical tests in Moradabad revealed alarming damage to her intestines and significant fluid accumulation in her abdomen. During an initial surgery performed by Dr. Riaz, approximately seven litres of fluid were drained from her stomach. Following a slight improvement, her uncle took her to AIIMS Delhi for advanced treatment.
A Brief Hope and a Sudden Deterioration
At AIIMS, Ahana's condition initially showed positive signs. Her stomach pain reduced and she began to move around, giving her family hope for a full recovery after doctors assured them she was improving.
However, in a devastating turn, her health suddenly worsened on late Sunday night. Despite all efforts, the teenager passed away on Monday morning. Doctors stated the immediate cause of death was heart failure.
They explained that the infection, which originated in her intestines, had spread to her lungs. Furthermore, the blood vessels supplying the heart became blocked, and overall blood circulation in her body had drastically reduced.
A Lifelong Habit with Tragic Consequences
Family members disclosed that Ahana had an extreme fondness for junk food since childhood. Her uncle, Sajid Khan, shared with regret that she consistently preferred chowmein, Maggi, pizza, and burgers over home-cooked meals and would even secretly eat packaged snacks.
"It was our mistake that we did not pay enough attention," he lamented. Another uncle, Gulzar Khan (Guddu), said doctors were clear that her intestines suffered catastrophic damage due to years of fast food consumption, leaving her body extremely weak.
Medical Experts Issue Stern Warning
This case has prompted medical professionals to urgently caution parents. Dr. SP Singh, the Chief Medical Officer of Amroha, emphasized that fast foods are typically high in spices, fat, and refined carbohydrates.
He specifically warned that items like cold drinks, chips, and french fries can suppress natural hunger and lead to serious health issues in children and teenagers. The incident underscores the critical need for balanced diets and parental vigilance regarding children's eating habits.
