Cardiac Surgeon & 'Hospital Playlist' Inspiration Clarifies Link Between Earlobe Creases and Heart Attacks

Dr. Yoo Jae-seok, a cardiothoracic surgeon known as the real-life inspiration for Professor Kim Jun-wan in the drama ‘Hospital Playlist’, shared his medical insights on the connection between earlobe creases and myocardial infarction (heart attack).

Appearing on the tvN variety show ‘You Quiz on the Block’ (hereafter ‘You Quiz’) on the 3rd, Dr. Yoo provided a detailed explanation of the risks and preventive measures for heart attacks.

Dr. Yoo specifically addressed the topic of ‘earlobe creases’, which recently gained public attention following comedian Kim Soo-yong’s case. A popular theory suggests that diagonal creases on the earlobe might be a precursor to cardiovascular disease.

He stated, “Following Mr. Kim Soo-yong’s case becoming a hot topic, I researched relevant papers and data. It’s called the ‘Frank Sign’, named after Dr. Frank who first identified it.” However, Dr. Yoo clarified, “It is difficult to establish a clear causal relationship medically.” He emphasized, “The appearance of wrinkles on the ear is one of the natural signs of aging. There’s no need to be overly concerned about cardiovascular disease solely based on the presence of an earlobe crease.”

Furthermore, Dr. Yoo defined the golden time for treating a heart attack as 2-3 hours, advising immediate emergency room visits if precursory symptoms like chest-tightening pain and cold sweats occur. He concluded by stressing that improving lifestyle habits, such as managing hypertension and obesity, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption, is key to disease prevention.

Netizens reacted positively to the broadcast, with comments like 'It's reassuring to hear the doctor's explanation,' 'I was worried about the earlobe crease, but it was a misunderstanding,' and 'I need to keep the heart attack prevention tips in mind.' They expressed trust in the medical information provided.