Investigation Reveals Complex Medical and Financial Factors Contributed to 38-Year-Old Prateek Yadav's Sudden Demise

Prateek Yadav's Death Linked to Underlying Medical Condition, Not Steroid Use

A recent report by India Today has shed light on the circumstances surrounding the death of Prateek Yadav, a gym enthusiast whose muscular physique sparked widespread speculation online about alleged steroid use. Contrary to conspiracy theories spreading on social media, the report reveals that Prateek's death was caused by a massive pulmonary thromboembolism linked to a long-standing medical condition, specifically Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT).

According to the report, Prateek had been undergoing treatment for DVT for the past five years. The condition, which involves the formation of blood clots in deep veins, most commonly in the legs, can lead to pulmonary embolism if the clot travels to the lungs, a potentially fatal medical emergency. Prateek's treating doctor confirmed that he had first approached her clinic with complaints of chest pain and breathlessness, following which DVT was detected.

The report states that Prateek was placed on blood thinners and remained under long-term medical supervision. However, his condition worsened on April 29 after he visited the hospital following a phone consultation with his doctor. He was experiencing severe chest discomfort, dizziness, and breathlessness and was immediately admitted to the ICU.

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Despite initial stabilisation of his condition, Prateek decided to leave the hospital on May 1 against the repeated warnings of his doctors. His doctor described this decision as "suicidal" given his medical condition. Prateek was distressed by the ICU environment and wanted to return home to be with his family. His wife, Aparna, repeatedly urged him to remain hospitalised and complete treatment, but he chose to sign LAMA papers and return home.

The report states that Prateek continued treatment at home with round-the-clock nursing assistance and remained on prescribed medication. His doctor stayed in contact with the nursing staff and last spoke to Prateek directly on May 3. Tragically, Prateek was declared dead at Civil Hospital, Lucknow, at 5:55 am on May 13, 2026.

The report also refers to postmortem findings documenting six contusions on different parts of Prateek's body. These injuries were linked to two separate falls, one occurring days before his hospital admission and another after he reportedly lost consciousness during his final hours at home. The report notes that the injuries appeared more severe because Prateek had been taking anticoagulants, which can significantly increase bruising and visible contusions.

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Timeline

• April 29: Prateek's condition worsens after a phone consultation with his doctor
• May 1: Prateek leaves the hospital against medical advice
• May 3: Prateek's doctor last speaks to him directly
• May 13, 2026: Prateek is declared dead at Civil Hospital, Lucknow, at 5:55 am