In the last few years, a worrying trend has been seen in the National Capital Region (NCR) adjacent to the country’s capital. Cases of heart attack are increasing rapidly among youth between 30 and 40 years of age. This is the same age group that was previously considered safe for heart diseases.
However, doctors and public health experts believe that a dangerous combination of environmental, lifestyle and metabolic factors is responsible for this. To know about these reasons, we spoke to Dr. Vinay Kumar Pandey (Director of Cardiology, Yatharth Hospital, Sector 20, Faridabad). Let us know what he said.
Air pollution has become the biggest threat
The continuously deteriorating air quality in NCR is one of the biggest reasons for this problem. The levels of PM2.5 and toxic gases remain dangerous for most of the year. These very small particles enter the body through the respiratory tract and mix with the blood. Long-term exposure to these pollutants causes inflammation, oxidative stress and damage to blood vessels. This speeds up the process of plaque accumulation in the arteries, which is called atherosclerosis. Research shows that air pollution is now increasing the risk of heart attack manifold not only in the elderly but also in the youth.
lazy habits and work stress
Corporate culture, long working hours, constant screen time and lack of sleep are also having a negative impact on heart health. Stress increases stress hormones like cortisol in the body, which increases blood pressure and pressure on the heart. Additionally, lack of regular exercise and processed or junk food also contribute to heart diseases.
Lifestyle diseases are increasing at a young age
In NCR, diseases like diabetes, obesity, high cholesterol and high blood pressure are now being seen at a young age. The problem is that many of these diseases continue to harm the body for a long time without causing any symptoms. By the time a person realizes it, the heart’s arteries are already damaged, increasing the risk of a sudden heart attack.
Increasing smoking, vaping and alcohol consumption
Smoking, vaping and alcohol consumption have become major risk factors among youth. These habits not only damage the blood vessels, but can also make the heartbeat abnormal, which increases the risk of heart attack.
Ignoring preventive health care
At the age of 30 and 40, most people consider themselves fit and ignore regular health checkups. As a result, problems like high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol may go undetected.
What are the preventive measures?
Experts believe that improving air quality, leading an active lifestyle, managing stress, eating a balanced and nutritious diet, and regular cardiac screening are important to stop this trend. Early awareness about heart health can protect youth from this increased risk.
