Why so many young people are dying of heart issues: A cardiologist’s perspective

(Author: Dr. Manjinder Singh Sandhu, Principal Director, Cardiology, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram)

In recent years, there has been a concerning rise in heart-related deaths among young adults, a trend that demands attention from both healthcare professionals and the public. Nowadays cardiologist, have increasingly encountered cases where otherwise healthy young individuals fall victim to cardiovascular complications, raising important questions about the root causes and potential preventive strategies.

A significant contributor to this alarming trend is the increasing prevalence of lifestyle-related risk factors. Modern life often promotes sedentary behaviors due to long working or study hours and excessive screen time. This inactivity, when combined with poor dietary habits—such as the frequent consumption of processed foods high in sugars, unhealthy fats, and sodium—creates an environment conducive to the development of cardiovascular diseases.

Obesity, which is largely driven by these unhealthy lifestyle choices, is becoming more widespread among younger populations. Excessive body weight elevates the risk of conditions like hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and high cholesterol, all of which place immense strain on the cardiovascular system and increase the likelihood of heart disease. Furthermore, modern diets often lack vital nutrients needed to support optimal heart health, compounding the risk.

Mental health is another critical factor impacting heart health among young individuals. The increasing incidence of stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly affect cardiovascular well-being. Stress, in particular, leads to the release of hormones such as cortisol, which can elevate blood pressure and encourage unhealthy coping mechanisms such as smoking, vaping, and excessive alcohol consumption, all of which are detrimental to heart health.

A key factor exacerbating this issue is the lack of regular health screenings among young people. Many young adults do not prioritize routine medical check-ups, which can result in undiagnosed conditions that could have been managed with timely intervention. Regular screenings are vital to identifying risk factors and pre-existing conditions before they progress into more serious health complications.

In summary, the rising incidence of heart-related deaths among young people is driven by a combination of lifestyle choices, mental health challenges, genetic factors, and inadequate health monitoring. We have to take preventative care and foster a healthcare environment that prioritizes heart health at a young age. By addressing these factors, we can work toward reducing heart-related deaths and ensuring a healthier future for younger generations.