Heart attacks in India are becoming more common in people between the ages of 25 and 40, according to the experts who suggest extensive cardiac screening in colleges and high schools as a preventative measure. Unhealthy lifestyle,stress, alcohol and smoking are major contributing factors.
"A number of young Indians are suffering from this life-threatening disease and the reason behind it is sedentary lifestyle. These days, we are not surprised at getting patients, aged between 25-35 years, with heart attack cases and emergency," R N Kalra, a cardiologist and Medical Director and CEO of Kalra Hospital (SRCNC), told a news portal. Adding, "It is a worrying trend and there is an urgent need to educate the younger generation about preventive measures."
The prevalence of heart disease in India has increased by almost 50 per cent from 1990 to 2016. This health issue has contributed to 17 per cent of death. Blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity and a sedentary lifestyle are major risk factors of heart disease.
"Seeds of heart disease are sown at a very young age and thus as a preventive measure, we are calling for wider cardiac screening and health promotion at schools and colleges. The government should also try to see if they can include lifestyle and awareness about heart diseases in the curriculum," Ambuj Roy, Professor of Cardiology at AIIMS told a news portal. Adding, "Screening of cardiac condition among youth should include a review of risk factors, blood pressure, heart-related symptoms, family history and other stress-related issues."
Regular checkups need to be taken as a precaution, especially for young people who may not think it is important. "Youngsters also have a tendency to undermine the risk factors. Sometimes ignoring routine checkup leads to the young suddenly succumbing to the disease. A vast majority of youngsters and adults also fail to identify the warning signs -chest pain, breathlessness, undue fatigue, acidity and lack of stamina, chest pressure, cold sweats, asthma or even the side effects of an emotional outburst," Kalra told a news portal.
Coronary artery disease is a major health issue many young people in the country are suffering, according to the experts. Exercising regularly for 30 minutes, sleeping week, reducing stress and eating well can help significantly reduce your risk of heart disease, as well as improve heart health.
