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In recent years, India has seen a worrying rise in heart attacks among young people. Daily news of sudden cardiac arrests among young Indians has turned the spotlight on this issue. Television icon Sidharth Shukla passed away suddenly due to a heart attack. Andhra Pradesh’s Minister of Information Technology and Industries, Mekapati Goutham Reddy, died of a heart attack at the age of 50. Famous singer KK also passed away at 53 after falling ill during a show.
These sudden deaths have left millions shocked—how can individuals who appear fit, eat well, and regularly visit the gym die so unexpectedly? Recently, many other tragic cases have also highlighted this alarming trend.
"The increasing number of heart disease-related deaths among the youth has raised serious concerns about heart health and preventive measures."
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The figures say it all
According to many doctors and health experts, the heart problems among Indians have doubled in the last decade. "Heart health" has become one of the most searched terms on google and there is growing concern about the rise in cardiac arrest cases, especially among young people, after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Here are some key facts:
- The World Health Organization states that India accounts for one-fifth of the 17.9 million global deaths from cardiovascular diseases, particularly among the younger generation.
- The Indian Heart Association reports that 50% of all heart attacks in Indian men occur under the age of 50, and 25% occur under 40.
- Heart attacks in people under 40, once rare, now affect 1 in every 5 patients.
- Between 2000 and 2016, the rate of heart attacks in young people (20s and early 30s) increased by 2% every year.
"These facts highlight the alarming rise in heart attacks among the young generation."
How Common Are Sudden Heart Attacks?
- Heart attacks are becoming more common among young people in India, especially those aged 25-44.
- Studies show a 30% increase in heart attacks in this age group during the first two years of the COVID-19 pandemic.
This alarming trend highlights the need for increased awareness and preventive measures for heart health in young adults.
Causes of Sudden Heart Attacks in Young People
Genetics
- Family History: If your close relatives (like parents or siblings) have had heart disease, your risk is higher because you might inherit the same genes.
- Inherited Conditions: Conditions like high cholesterol or high blood pressure can be passed down, increasing your risk of heart disease.
Lifestyle
- Unhealthy Foods: Eating too much fast food, sugary drinks, and processed foods can increase the risk of heart disease. These foods are high in fat, sugar, and salt, which can block arteries.
- Lack of Physical Activity: Not being active enough can weaken your heart. Regular exercise is essential to keep heart healthy.
- Smoking and Alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are major risk factors for heart disease. They damage blood vessels and heart.
- Rise of Fast Food in India: The rise in fast food and sugary drink consumption in India has contributed to more heart disease cases.
Also Read: 8 Steps for Preventing Heart Disease
Health Conditions
- High Blood Pressure: This means heart has to work harder to pump blood. Over time, this can damage heart and lead to a heart attack.
- Diabetes: High sugar levels in blood can harm blood vessels and heart.
- Obesity: Being overweight puts extra strain on heart.
Stress
- High Stress Levels: Constant stress can raise blood pressure and harm heart.
COVID-19 and Heart Problems
COVID-19 can cause inflammation in the heart muscle, known as myocarditis. This inflammation can lead to complications like irregular heartbeats, heart failure, and even sudden cardiac arrest. The virus can also affect the lining of blood vessels, leading to blood clots, which can cause heart attacks or strokes.
Diabetes and Heart Disease
Diabetes is a major risk factor for heart disease. High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and the nerves that control the heart. Over time, this damage can lead to atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), which increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
"In India, the number of people with diabetes is rising rapidly, making it a significant health concern."
Signs of a Sudden Heart Attack
Knowing the signs of a heart attack can save lives. Common symptoms include:
- Chest pain or discomfort: Feels like pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain.
- Shortness of breath: Can happen with or without chest pain.
- Nausea or vomiting: Some people feel sick to their stomach.
- Lightheadedness or dizziness: Feeling faint or dizzy.
- Pain in the arms, neck, jaw, or back: This pain can be in one or both arms, the neck, jaw, or back.
How to Lower Risk of Heart Attacks
- Regular Exercise: Activities like walking, jogging, or yoga can keep heart strong.
- Balanced Diet: Eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins helps maintain heart health.
- Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Smoking and drinking too much alcohol can damage heart and blood vessels, so it’s best to quit or limit these habits.
- Manage Stress: Techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and spending time with loved ones can help reduce stress.
- Regular Health Check-ups: These can help detect and manage risk factors like high blood pressure and diabetes early on.
Conclusion
The increase in sudden heart attacks among young people is worrying and needs attention. By living a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, and staying informed about heart health, you can lower your risk of heart disease. Awareness and proactive measures are key to fighting this growing heart health issue.
