Ahead of World Heart Day, Metro Hospital Noida raised awareness about the alarming rise in heart attacks among young adults. Traditionally considered a condition affecting older generations, heart attacks are increasingly being reported in individuals under the age of 50. This troubling trend calls for an urgent need to understand its underlying causes and implement proactive measures to protect the heart health of younger populations.
In recent years, India has witnessed an upsurge of heart attacks among young adults and people in their 30s and 40s. According to a comprehensive medical study published in October 2023, heart attacks were the underlying cause of up to 45% of deaths in the 40–69-year age group.
Explaining the major causes of heart attack in young adults, Dr Purshotam Lal, Chairman – Metro Hospital, Noida said “Unhealthy lifestyle choices, such as poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, and excessive alcohol intake, are major contributors to obesity, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol—key risk factors for heart attacks. Chronic stress and untreated mental health issues, like anxiety and depression, can lead to harmful coping mechanisms, further increasing heart disease risk. Additionally, stress directly elevates blood pressure and heart rate, straining the heart. Genetic predisposition also plays a role, as family history can impact cholesterol and blood pressure. With increased desk jobs, screen time, and physical inactivity, these risk factors are becoming more prevalent among young adults.”
Heart attacks, previously considered a health concern for the elderly, are becoming more common in younger people in India. Some say that this is due to a combination of lifestyle factors, genetics, and environmental influences. Others say that Indians are genetically predisposed to heart attacks and that adopting a Western lifestyle has increased the risk.
Dr Sameer Gupta, Senior Interventional Cardiologist, Metro Hospital – Noida said “To prevent heart attacks in young adults, adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle. Follow a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats while minimizing processed foods, sugars, and trans fats. Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise weekly to maintain weight and boost heart health. Manage stress through meditation, yoga, or hobbies, and seek help for chronic anxiety or depression. Avoid smoking, steer clear of secondhand smoke, and limit alcohol intake to one drink per day for women and two for men to safeguard cardiovascular health.
Doctors also recommend regular health check-ups and regularly monitoring blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar levels. Early detection of potential issues allows for timely intervention and management. Staying informed educating oneself about heart health and staying updated on new research and recommendations contribute to a healthy life. Awareness is the first step toward prevention.
Heart attacks in young adults are a growing concern, but with awareness, education, and proactive lifestyle changes, the risk can be significantly reduced. By understanding the causes and taking preventive measures, we can work together to safeguard the health of future generations.