Rise in heart issues among young adults linked to lifestyle and COVID

WEB DESK: Emerging evidence indicates a concerning increase in heart problems among young adults, attributed to deteriorating lifestyle habits such as poor diet and lack of exercise. Experts also suggest a potential association with COVID infections.

According to National Geograpgic, of particular alarm is the global rise in heart attacks among younger adults, despite a decline in older age groups, prompting doctors to label it a public health emergency.

While cardiac arrest differs from a heart attack, both events raise broader questions about heart health in the younger population. Dr Ron Blankstein from Brigham and Women’s Hospital emphasises that cardiovascular disease is preventable with the right steps.

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Increasing heart attacks in younger adults

A study covering young adults admitted for heart attacks between 2000 and 2016 found a notable increase in those aged 40 or younger, with a yearly rise of 2 percent over a decade.

Heart disease’s surge in younger adults has contributed to a 4 percent decline in recent US life expectancy, as reported in JAMA Network.

The issue is not confined to the United States, with similar trends observed in countries like Pakistan and India. Recent studies challenge the assumption that heart attacks predominantly affect men, revealing a rise among younger women, particularly those with underlying health conditions.

Risk factors and the impact of COVID

High blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and obesity are identified as major risk factors for heart disease, often stemming from unhealthy lifestyle choices.

COVID, in turn, appears to have an immediate impact on cardiovascular health, with a 14 per cent increase in heart attack deaths within the first year of the pandemic, especially among adults aged 25 to 44.

Factors like tobacco, drug use, and alcohol have also been associated with heightened heart attack risks in younger adults.

Lack of awareness and challenges in healthcare

Despite these concerning trends, a survey indicates that almost half of people under 45 believe they are not at risk for heart disease.

Experts argue that the healthcare system’s lack of focus on evaluating and treating younger adults with heart disease exacerbates the issue.

Addressing these challenges requires early prevention, encouraging young adults to adopt healthier lifestyles.

The American Heart Association recommends following “Life’s Essential 8,” emphasising measures like a healthy diet, regular exercise, no tobacco smoking, and managing weight, cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure.

Experts said that prioritising cardiovascular health in young adulthood is crucial for preventing heart disease and ensuring a longer and healthier life span.