By Dr. Ashish Agarwal
Heart attacks were once considered a health issue affecting mainly older adults. However, in recent years, cardiologists have noticed an alarming rise in heart attack cases among young individuals, even in their 20s and 30s.
Dr. Ashish Agarwal, Director and Senior Consultant Cardiologist at Akash Super Speciality Hospital, Dwarka, New Delhi, sheds light on this growing concern, explaining the causes, risk factors, and preventive measures to protect the young generation from heart disease.
In India, the average age of first heart attack has dropped drastically over the past decade. Studies show that nearly 25% of heart attack cases now occur in individuals below the age of 40.
Dr. Agarwal points out that this trend is not limited to India alone — it’s a global phenomenon linked to modern lifestyle, stress, and changing dietary habits. What’s concerning is that many of these young patients appear healthy from the outside, yet their hearts tell a different story.
Modern lifestyles have drastically changed the way young people live and work.
Dr. Ashish Agarwal explains: “Young people often underestimate the impact of their daily habits. Skipping physical activity, eating late-night fast food, and high stress collectively accelerate heart damage.”
Constant pressure from careers, financial responsibilities, and social expectations has made stress an inseparable part of modern life.
Chronic stress triggers the release of hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which raise blood pressure, heart rate, and inflammation — leading to early heart disease.
Dr. Agarwal adds: “Emotional stress can be as harmful as physical risk factors. Anxiety, depression, and burnout are now recognized as significant contributors to heart attacks among the youth.”
With the rise of remote work, digital entertainment, and online conveniences, physical movement has drastically reduced.
All these contribute to obesity, diabetes, and hypertension — key risk factors for heart disease.
Tobacco and alcohol consumption are two of the most preventable causes of heart attacks. Smoking narrows blood vessels, reduces oxygen supply, and makes the heart work harder.
Excessive alcohol, on the other hand, leads to high blood pressure, arrhythmias, and weakening of the heart muscle over time.
Dr. Agarwal warns: “Even occasional smoking or binge drinking can have long-term effects on heart health, especially when combined with stress and poor sleep.”
Diabetes and high cholesterol are no longer diseases of old age. Young people with poor diets and irregular lifestyles are increasingly being diagnosed with these conditions.
Excessive sugar intake and lack of regular medical check-ups allow these silent killers to progress unnoticed until a heart attack strikes.
If a close family member (parent or sibling) has had a heart attack at a young age, the risk significantly increases.
Genetic factors can predispose young individuals to early atherosclerosis — the buildup of plaque in arteries that can lead to blockages.
Many young individuals ignore early symptoms, assuming they are too young to have a heart problem. Common warning signs include:
If any of these symptoms occur, seek immediate medical attention. Delaying treatment, even by a few hours, can lead to severe complications or death.
At least 30 minutes of moderate activity (walking, cycling, swimming) five days a week can greatly reduce the risk of heart disease.
Completely quitting smoking and controlling alcohol intake are essential steps toward long-term cardiovascular health.
Practice yoga, meditation, and relaxation techniques.
Prioritize mental health — talk to someone, take breaks, and ensure proper sleep.
Even if you feel healthy, regular screening for blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and ECG can help detect early warning signs.
Dr. Ashish Agarwal emphasizes: “Prevention is the strongest weapon against heart attacks. Young people must understand that heart disease doesn’t wait for old age — it’s a lifestyle disease that can affect anyone.”
The rise in heart attacks among young people is a serious wake-up call.
While genetics play a role, the majority of cases are linked to lifestyle factors — stress, poor diet, smoking, and lack of exercise.
Dr. Ashish Agarwal, through his expertise and leadership at Akash Super Speciality Hospital, continues to guide patients in adopting heart-healthy habits and taking proactive steps toward a longer, healthier life.
Copyright © 2025 Dr. Ashish Agarwal | All Rights Reserved
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