Imagine a bustling metropolis, filled with the vibrant energy and aspirations of its young inhabitants. Now, picture this same city being plagued by an alarming increase in heart attacks among its youth. Unfortunately, this scenario is becoming all too common in India.
Heart attacks were once considered a condition predominantly affecting older individuals. However, recent years have witnessed a worrisome rise in cardiovascular diseases among young Indians. This perplexing trend demands our attention and prompts us to explore the crucial role preventive health plays in effectively managing life-threatening conditions. Studies and clinical observations have revealed an alarming trend of increasing cardiac deaths among young Indians, even in their 30s and 40s. This change in the age pattern of heart disease affects individuals and families and imposes a significant burden on society.
Indians, due to their ethnicity, are prone to develop coronary artery disease approximately 10 years earlier than their western counterparts. Most people in the west develop coronary artery disease after 65-70 years of age, while Indians develop them at 50-60 years of age. But the last decade has seen an increase in coronary artery disease in much younger individuals. Among these risk factors, smoking emerges as the primary cause of heart attacks in young individuals. Smokers in their early 20s and 30s develop heart attacks, which lead to heart damage that cripples them for life. Nicotine, a key component of cigarettes, predisposes individuals to blood clotting, increasing the likelihood of arterial blockages. Smoking also accelerates the development of atherosclerosis, damages blood vessels, and significantly contributes to the burden of heart disease.
Lack of exercise and sedentary behaviour amplify the risk, as regular physical activity plays a crucial role in maintaining cardiovascular wellbeing. Irregular sleep patterns and an unhealthy diet, characterised by the consumption of processed foods and excessive intake of unhealthy fats, sugars, and salt, also contribute significantly to the increasing incidence of heart attacks in younger age groups. Transitioning of the economy from labour-oriented jobs to blue collared jobs adds to the sedentary lifestyle.
Elevated lipid levels, particularly high cholesterol, play a substantial role in the development of heart attacks. Poor dietary choices, sedentary lifestyles, and genetic predispositions contribute to dyslipidemia, increasing the risk of arterial blockages. Another often overlooked factor contributing to heart attacks is the combination of cold weather and air pollution. Cold weather induces vasoconstriction, which places additional strain on the heart. Air pollution, particularly fine particulate matter, can penetrate deep into the lungs, triggering systemic inflammation and oxidative stress, thereby promoting the development of cardiovascular events.
Preventing and managing risk factors is essential in the prevention of heart attacks. Here are some key measures to consider:
• Know your numbers: It is crucial to be aware of your numbers, such as lipid levels, fasting blood sugar, blood pressure, and BMI (body mass index). Regular monitoring of these values enables early detection of any abnormalities and allows for appropriate interventions. Detection of abnormal levels should serve as an impetus to carry out lifestyle changes and pharmacological intervention when needed.
• Embrace a healthy lifestyle: Adopting a well-balanced diet is important for maintaining heart health. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while limiting the intake of saturated fats, trans fats, salt and added sugars. Additionally, prioritise regular and adequate sleep of a minimum eight hours, as it plays a vital role in overall wellbeing. Engage in regular aerobic exercise to improve cardiovascular fitness.
• Medication adherence for cardiac patients: If you have been diagnosed with a heart condition, it is important to take prescribed medications regularly. Adhering to the prescribed treatment plan can help manage the condition and reduce the risk of future cardiac events. Being aware of one’s symptoms and taking timely medical help is the key to reducing cardiovascular mortality. Also, aerobic exercise is needed to improve functional capacity even in cardiac patients.
To increase the overall health of the citizens, public health policies are instrumental in ensuring the wellbeing of the population and addressing health care challenges at a broader level.
In conclusion, addressing the rising incidence of heart attacks among younger individuals requires a comprehensive understanding of the associated risk factors. Preventing heart attacks requires a proactive approach to managing risk factors. By staying informed about your health numbers, adopting a healthy lifestyle, managing body weight, maintaining an active lifestyle, and adhering to prescribed medications for cardiac patients, you can significantly reduce the risk of a heart attack. Remember, it is always advisable to consult a health care professional for personalised guidance and recommendations based on your specific health needs.
The author is a consultant cardiologist and cardiac electrophysiologist, P.D. Hinduja Hospital & MRC, Mahim.