Heart attacks in young adults: Healthy lifestyle changes and preventive steps

Causes of heart attack: High blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, high cholesterol, and a family history of heart disease are major contributors to heart attacks, even in young adults (Image: Canva)

Heart attacks are no longer just a concern for older adults. Research shows that heart attacks among people under 40 are steadily increasing, with cases rising by 2 percent each year over the past decade. According to the American College of Cardiology (ACC), heart attacks among young adults, especially those under 40, are increasing at an alarming rate. This trend is concerning, as younger patients face the same risk of complications as older people.

Traditional risk factors: 

High blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, high cholesterol, and a family history of heart disease are major contributors to heart attacks, even in young adults. These risk factors can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries, increasing the likelihood of blockages and cardiovascular events. However, managing them early through lifestyle changes, regular check-ups, and proper medication can significantly reduce the risk of future heart problems and improve long-term heart health.

Also read | Symptoms of heart attack: Chest pain, nausea, sweating are warning signs, expert tips to prevent

Preventive tips to reduce heart attack risk in young adults:

Avoid smoking and substance abuse: Smoking and drug use, including cocaine and marijuana, are major risk factors for heart disease. These substances can cause artery damage, increase blood pressure, and trigger heart attacks. Quitting smoking and avoiding recreational drugs can greatly improve cardiovascular health.

Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity strengthens the heart, improves circulation, and helps maintain healthy blood pressure. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming, to keep your heart in top shape.

Follow a heart-healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can prevent heart disease. Reduce intake of processed foods, excessive salt, sugar, and saturated fats, which contribute to high cholesterol and artery blockages.

Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity increases the risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Maintaining a healthy body weight through a combination of proper diet and exercise can help prevent cardiovascular issues.

Also read | Causes of heart attacks in young adults: Can irregular sleep patterns raise the risk?

Manage blood pressure and cholesterol: High blood pressure and high cholesterol are silent risk factors for heart attacks. Regular check-ups, a low-sodium diet, exercise, and prescribed medications (if necessary) can help keep these levels under control and reduce heart strain.

Monitor and prevent diabetes: Diabetes significantly increases the risk of heart disease. Maintaining healthy blood sugar levels through diet, exercise, and regular screenings can help prevent diabetes-related heart complications. If diagnosed, proper management of diabetes is crucial to reducing cardiovascular risks.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.