Generation Unhealthy: The Growing Threat of Heart Disease and Stroke Risk Factors in Young Adults

This article includes my summary of a recent study presented at the American College of Cardiology Scientific Sessions on (3/5/23) and follows a recent call to action in a JAMA editorial which reports on the "urgent need to refocus cardiovascular disease prevention efforts for younger adults". It also serves as a follow-up to my first article on this topic "Why we are losing the battle on cardiovascular disease."

"We Can Prevent This Cardiovascular Threat Damaging Hearts and Injuring Bright Minds But We Need to Double Down and Start Early with Education, Screening and Prevention Efforts for Children and Adolescents at Increased Risk."

-David Dansereau,MSPT- Author Body in Balance

Here’s Why:

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) have long been associated with older age groups. However, recent studies have raised concerns about an alarming trend: an increasing prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors leading to heart disease and stroke among young adults. This post explores the research findings and sheds light on the potential reasons behind this worrisome phenomenon.

The Data:

Key findings from a study presented at the ACC (American College of Cardiology) Scientific Session/World Congress of Cardiology (WCC) on March 5, 2023 and simultaneously published in JAMA.

This recent study revealed that risk factors traditionally associated with CVDs, such as high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol, are becoming more prevalent among younger individuals. The researchers analyzed data from over 36,000 adults aged 18 to 44 and found that the prevalence of these risk factors increased significantly over the past decade.

High Blood Pressure:

The study reported a 4.3% increase in the prevalence of high blood pressure among young adults between 2010 and 2020. This rise is particularly concerning because high blood pressure is a major contributor to heart attacks and strokes, which were once primarily seen in older individuals.

Obesity and Diabetes:

Another alarming finding was the escalating rates of obesity and diabetes in young adults. The study showed a 4.8% increase in obesity and a 3.7% increase in diabetes prevalence over the same period. These risk factors significantly elevate the chances of developing heart disease later in life.

High Cholesterol:

Elevated cholesterol levels, especially the low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or "bad" cholesterol, are known to contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries. The study found a 6.4% increase in high cholesterol levels among young adults, emphasizing the need for early intervention to prevent long-term cardiovascular complications.

Potential Explanations:

The rise in cardiovascular risk factors among young adults can be attributed to a combination of factors. Sedentary lifestyles, poor dietary choices, increased stress levels, and inadequate access to healthcare and preventive services are some of the contributing factors.

"Life expectancy in the US is now the lowest it has been since 1996, with young- and middle-aged adults seeing the most rapid declines."- JAMA Editorial

Modern technologies have also played a role, with excessive screen time leading to reduced physical activity and increased consumption of unhealthy foods. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated the situation, with lockdowns, remote learning and restrictions limiting physical activity and promoting unhealthy habits.

Bottom Line:

Implications and Recommendations:

The increasing prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors among young adults has significant implications for public health. It indicates a potential future burden of CVDs on healthcare systems and underscores the importance of preventive measures and early education in schools and at home.

Healthcare providers, policymakers, and individuals themselves should prioritize early detection and management of cardiovascular risk factors. Encouraging healthy lifestyles that incorporate regular exercise, a balanced diet, stress management, and regular check-ups can go a long way in reducing the incidence of CVDs among young adults.

Additionally, public health campaigns should aim to raise awareness with our young bright minds about the long-term consequences of unhealthy habits and advocate for improved access to preventive healthcare services, especially for underprivileged populations.

Doubling Down on an Urgent Need to Intervene

The increasing prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors among young adults is a concerning trend that warrants immediate attention. Recognizing the importance of addressing these factors early on and implementing effective preventive strategies can help mitigate the future burden of CVDs and ensure a healthier future for young adults.

By taking action now, we can empower young individuals to make informed lifestyle choices, take charge of their own health and protect and invest in their cardiovascular wellness for many years to come.

Note: If you missed my first article is this series on cardiovascular disease and why we are losing the battle, please read it here with my thoughts on "the pill" we aren't prescribing to help the urgent problem.

Please share your thoughts on this topic below.

References:

https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2802264

https://www.medscape.org/viewarticle/990350