Marengo Asia Hospitals Gurugram commemorated World Heart Day which falls on 29thSeptember this year by advocating the prevention of heart attacks in the younger population. Recent studies have shown a worrying increase in the incidence of heart attacks among young adults. Once considered a health issue predominantly affecting older adults, heart attacks are now becoming more common in people under the age of 50. Understanding the reasons behind this trend and taking preventive measures is crucial to combating this growing health concern. The Department of Cardiology is led by Dr Sanjeev Chaudhary, Chairman – Cardiology, Marengo Asia Hospitals Gurugram.

The cardiologists list out causes of heart attacks in young adults. Unhealthy Lifestyle Choices with poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption significantly increase the risk of heart disease. These habits contribute to obesity, high blood pressure, and elevated cholesterol levels, all of which are critical risk factors for heart attacks. Stress and Mental Health are very important as they result in chronic stress and untreated mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms like smoking, overeating, or substance abuse. Additionally, stress itself can cause increased blood pressure and heart rate, leading to greater strain on the heart. Genetic Predisposition is an equally contributory factor as a family history of heart disease can predispose young adults to heart attacks. Genetic factors may influence cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and other conditions that contribute to cardiovascular health.Other factors include Sedentary Lifestyle including a rise of desk jobs and screen time, and physical inactivity has become a major health concern. A sedentary lifestyle contributes to obesity, diabetes, and other conditions that increase the risk of heart disease. Youngsters are also taking to substance abuse where the use of recreational drugs, such as cocaine and amphetamines, has been linked to increased heart attack risk, especially in younger individuals.

Dr Sanjeev Chaudhary, Chairman – Cardiology, Marengo Asia Hospitals Gurugram says, “There are several tips on staying safe and preventing heart attacks in the young. Adopt a Healthy Diet, focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Reduce the intake of processed foods, sugar, and trans fats to maintain heart health. Exercise Regularly by engaging in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise each week. Physical activity helps to maintain a healthy weight, reduce stress, and improve cardiovascular health. Manage Stress by practicing stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, or hobbies that help relax the mind. It is also important to seek professional help if experiencing chronic stress, anxiety, or depression.Other modifications include avoiding smoking and limiting alcoholconsumption. Quit smoking and avoid exposure to secondhand smoke. Limit alcohol consumption to moderate levels, which is up to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.”

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, 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. 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. 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.