In a new survey report, it came out that chances of being diagnosed with cardiac problems at a young age are more common than those with old ones. This shocking news came after studying the graph from 2000 to 2016, where we witnessed the heart attack rate increase by 2% every year in this particular age group.
Heart Attack is the leading global problem around the world. If we calculate, around 17.9 million people died from cardiovascular disease (CVDs) in 2019. Of these, 85% were due to heart attacks and strokes.
Early on, it was said that, as you grow older, the risk of getting diagnosed with heart problems and heart attacks increases in men as well as women due to several factors from family history to lifestyle.
However, in the last five years, especially after COVID-19, the number of cardiac problems has surged. A study conducted by the Cardiology Department of PGIMER revealed that a growing number of young patients under the age of 50 have been reporting heart problems.
Emergency Cases Increased By 60% Rise in Cardiac Patients Seeking Urgent Care
Another thing that surprised all the medical experts was after Aakash Healthcare found that cases of Heart Attacks have doubled in recent times after the pandemic in young adults. Additionally, the number of patients landing in emergency jumped by 60 percent.
This study was analyzed over 5 years, from May 2018 to October 2023. It examined 762 cases, divided into three periods: pre-COVID, during COVID, and post-COVID, each spanning 22 months.
Talking about this, Dr. Harpeet Kaur, Medical Superintendent, Aakash Healthcare, said, "Study paints a worrying picture of cardiovascular risks amid a changing healthcare landscape. These statistics presents intriguing picture demanding investigation and proactive intervention"
After this, we can see a new trend within specific age groups. While all age brackets saw a rise in STEMI cases after COVID-19, the under-40 demographic saw a sharp rise, with a threefold increase compared to the pre-pandemic period.
Observing and seeing this will shed light on the intertwined relationship between STEMI and pre-existing health conditions. The proportion of diabetic patients among STEMI cases soared by 50 percent post-COVID. While a rise in hypertension cases was observed, it didn't reach statistical significance.
Dr. Aakash Chowdhary said, "The observed rise in STEMI cases, particularly among younger individuals and diabetes patients, demands attention for necessary preventive measures."
Core-Reasons Behind Sudden Rise of Heart Attack Cases in Young People
We know heart attack has been one of the leading causes of death around the world, taking an estimated 17.9 million lives each year. Accounting for CVDs for 32% of all global deaths. A worldwide trend where the total number of deaths from cardiovascular disease has risen globally, from around 14 million in 2000 to almost 18 million in 2019. But that used to happen after the age of 50, and now it's the opposite, where as per the latest report and survey, 1 in 5 heart attack patients are now under 40.
1. Poor Lifestyle
India and Southeast Asian Countries have a genetic predisposition to early heart disease, but lifestyle changes have worsened the risk.
“In the last few years, lifestyle habits have drastically changed. Smoking is now common even among school-going children, especially girls. Poor diets filled with processed and refined foods, rising obesity, excessive salt and sugar intake, high stress, and lack of sleep are all contributing factors,” Dr Prakash said.
Following a poor lifestyle is one of the leading factors behind the sudden increase in cases among the youth. As per the latest report from the World Health Organisation (WHO), following an unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, tobacco use, and harmful use of alcohol are the main reasons for Cardiovascular disease.
2. Substance Abuse
Substance abuse badly impacts heart health by increasing the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke chances. Toxic substances like cocaine and methamphetamine can cause sudden increases in blood pressure and irregular heartbeats, leading to heart attacks. Several studies show how substance abuse can lead to cardiovascular problems.
As per the reports, heavy drinking can be defined as more than seven drinks per week for women and over 14 for men, which can lead to various cardiovascular diseases. Alcohol intake in the body can cause temporary increases in heart rate and blood pressure, which, over time, may result in conditions like tachycardia and hypertension, increasing the chances of stroke and failure.
3. COVID-19
COVID-19 has had a significant impact on cardiovascular health, with a large increase in heart attacks among young adults. COVID-19 virus itself causes inflammation in the body, leading to myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) and increasing the risk of blood clots, which can trigger sudden cardiac events.
Recently, a study by the National Institutes of Health found that people who were infected with Covid-19, especially severe cases, faced a significantly higher risk of heart problems.
The study, published in ‘Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology,’ tracked nearly 2.18 lakh people for three years. It found that Covid-19 patients had double the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and death compared to those who never had the virus. For those hospitalized due to Covid-19, the risk was four times higher.
Also Read: Youth In Danger: 1 in 5 Heart Attack Patients Now Under 40
Key Lifestyle Habits for a Healthier Heart
1. Maintain a Balance Diet
Young people should follow a proper balanced diet for a healthy heart rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats while limiting processed foods, sugar, and excess salt.
However, in today’s fast-paced world, managing a proper and healthy diet for heart health is not everyone's cup of tea. This is where GNC Nitro Surge , India’s first Cardio-Protect Whey, plays a crucial role. Doctor-recommended and specifically formulated to support cardiovascular health, this premium whey protein is designed to help young adults combat rising heart health concerns.
By having two - Nitrosigine® and L-Citrulline, the 2 powerful vasodilators that boost nitric oxide production, improve blood circulation, enhance muscle endurance while supporting healthy heart function and blood pressure levels.
One major question that would pop into your mind is, would a normal person add GNC Nitro Surge to their diet without going to the gym? The answer is yes! Nitro Surge isn’t just for gym-goers—it's designed for anyone looking to safeguard their heart health and maintain optimal cardiovascular wellness.
2. Stress Management
Stress has become a big global health concern, affecting individuals across various demographics, regions, and a young age. The younger generations are the ones most affected by this. The reports from the World Health Organization (WHO) show that one in four people worldwide will experience mental health issues, including stress-related disorders, at some point in their lives.
Several studies have shown that people with high stress levels are at a greater risk of developing cardiovascular disease, making stress management crucial for heart health. In order to manage stress, youth should practice meditation, deep breathing, yoga, or other relaxation techniques to reduce stress and lower the risk of heart-related issues.
3. Quit Smoking & Limit Alcohol
Another reason for the increase in the number of cases among young people is smoking and alcohol consumption. Smoking can lead to Rapid Artery Damage, and tobacco smoke accelerates the formation of atherosclerosis (clogged arteries), reducing oxygen flow to the heart.
Regular alcohol consumption can lead to worse effects on the heart over time, inducing developments such as hypertension, irregular heartbeat, and strokes. The best way to get rid of this problem is to avoid the use of alcohol and quit smoking for a healthy heart.
The Bottom Line!
The unexpected increase in heart attacks among young people should alarm everyone's conscience to give priority to improved healthcare and change lifestyle in an individual. .Young people should keep this in mind and focus on a balanced diet to prevent stress and smoking cessation, reduce alcohol intake, and improve physical fitness.
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