Marengo CIMS Hospital commemorates the World Heart Day,
by increasing awareness on the Rising Prevalence of Heart Disease Among Indian Youth: A Call for Urgent Action
- There is an alarming rise in the younger ages of heart attacks and cardiac arrests since the past decade and a half
- This urgently highlights the need for greater awareness, early detection, and preventive measures
Ahmedabad: Saturday, 28th September 2024: Marengo CIMS Hospital commemorates World Heart Day by increasing awareness about heart attacks moving to younger ages. Heart disease, once predominantly associated with older adults, has now become alarmingly common among the youth of India. Over the last decade, hospitals across the country have seen a sharp rise in cases of heart disease and heart attacks among individuals as young as 20 to 30 years old.
This worrying trend is not just limited to India; South Asians worldwide are disproportionately affected by heart disease, with research indicating that 50-60% of global heart disease patients are of Indian origin. Factors that affect the younger population and the urgent steps they will have to embrace in keeping healthy is elaborated by Dr Anish Chandarana, Interventional Cardiologist, Marengo CIMS Hospital.
Indian youth are more prone to heart diseases as genetics plays a significant role. Indians tend to develop fatty deposits in their coronary arteries at a much younger age compared to Western populations. As a result, heart attacks in Indians occur 10 to 15 years earlier than in people from countries like the United States, Europe, or Japan. Complications from heart disease, such as heart failure or sudden cardiac death, are also more prevalent in our population.
However, genetics alone cannot explain the steep rise in heart disease among the youth. Urbanization and modernization have led to drastic lifestyle changes over the past two decades. The adoption of unhealthy diets, rich in processed and ultra-processed foods, excessive consumption of tobacco and alcohol, and a sedentary lifestyle are key contributors.
Dr Anish Chandarana, Interventional Cardiologist says, “Lack of exercise, irregular sleep patterns, long working hours, and chronic stress further exacerbate the problem. Additionally, the overuse of digital devices and social media has contributed to increased mental health issues, which have a direct impact on heart health. One recent and alarming finding is the rise in heart attacks during vigorous exercise among young individuals. Enthusiastic but unprepared youth engaging in high-intensity workouts without proper health checks have been seen in hospital emergency rooms with severe cardiac issues. This highlights the importance of understanding one’s physical limits and seeking medical advice before starting a new fitness regimen.”
Heart disease often begins silently. Symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or fatigue during everyday activities should never be ignored. In young patients, symptoms may manifest differently—jaw pain, shoulder pain, and even digestive discomfort may indicate an underlying heart issue. Early detection through regular health check-ups, especially for those with a family history of heart disease, can be life-saving.
Dr Anish Chandarana additionally says, “Protecting your health starts with simple preventive measures. The age-old adage “A careful man is always happy.” rings true for heart health. Adults aged 18 and above should prioritize regular check-ups to monitor blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels. A balanced lifestyle is equally essential, featuring a diet rich in whole foods, fruits, and vegetables, with limited processed foods. Incorporating daily physical activity, such as yoga or walking, also plays a crucial role. By taking these proactive steps, you can significantly reduce risk factors and maintain optimal health. Healthy sleep habits, avoiding excessive screen time before bed, and managing stress through meditation and relaxation techniques are also essential. Equally important is maintaining positive social relationships, which have been shown to benefit heart health.”
The number of cardiovascular disease (CVD) cases in India has surged from 25.7 million in 1990 to 64 million in 2023. Indians are also more prone to developing CVD risk factors at a younger age and tend to experience more severe forms of the disease compared to other ethnic groups. Heart disease among India’s youth is a societal challenge requiring a collective response. Early detection, lifestyle changes, and quality medical care can significantly reduce the risk.
We must promote heart-healthy lifestyles, enhance awareness and education, and improve access to healthcare. By taking proactive steps now, we can safeguard the cardiovascular well-being of our youth and build a healthier future for generations to come. Coronary artery disease (CAD): CAD occurs in young Indians at a higher rate than in other ethnic groups. Over 50% of CVD mortality in Indians occurs in people under 50 years old. Heart attacks: 50% of heart attacks in Indian men occur under 50, and 25% occur under 40. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: This genetic condition is the most common cause of sudden cardiac death in young people. It causes the heart muscle to thicken, making it difficult for the heart to pump blood.
