Heart diseases have long affected people under the age of 45, says Hyderabad-based doctor

Is young people becoming prone to heart-related problems a new phenomenon? A leading expert says no. (Picture Credit: Pexels)

As per Indian Journal of Medical Research, heart disease is one of the leading causes of sudden deaths among people under the age of 45. As per the finding, even the seemingly healthy-looking people are also prone to this disease.

The prevalent sentiment is that why so many young lives are succumbing to heart attacks. However, Hyderabad-based neurologist Dr Sudhir Kumar shared on X that young people dying of heart attacks is not a new phenomenon. He stated that for decades, even in the 1990s and early 2000s, studies have shown that heart disease (especially silent coronary artery disease) was the most common cause of sudden death in young adults. So, the only difference as per him is that recent Indian studies have highlighted this with larger and better data. There's more public focus on these numbers now.

Kumar also highlighted that among people who "appear healthy", the disease goes undiagnosed, but it doesn't mean it's absent.

In view of younger population becoming more prone to heart attacks, Kumar shared some important points that everyone must bear in mind.

1. Heart disease can be silent, even in the young

The one mistake most people make is they never think that anything can go wrong with the health of a young person. This explains why some people develop blindspots for many silent symptoms of heart attack. What is crucial to understand is that most symptoms of a heart disease are silent in nature. Therefore, it is essential to be more vigilant at all times.

2. Lack of symptoms ≠ lack of risk

Not every disease manifests in the forms of symptoms. Some do at a much later stage. This is why it is important to be in sync with your body and listen to every small sign that it gives you. Don't ever mislead yourself into believing that lack of bodily symptoms means there's no risk posing your health. Be alert always.

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3. Family history, smoking, diabetes, abnormal cholesterol, obesity, stress and sedentary lifestyle matter

The genes you inherit from your parents and your lifestyle habits have a lot of bearing on your overall health and well-being. From obesity, high level of cholesterol to living a stressful environment at most times, all this factors can lead to heart diseases. So, be mindful of every dietary and lifestyle choice you make.

Take a look at his post:

Sudden deaths in the young: Is this something new?

▶️Recent headlines suggest that heart disease is now the leading cause of sudden death in people under 45, even among those who appeared healthy. ▶️Important clarification: This is not a new phenomenon. For decades, even in the… https://t.co/jtqDnUHGeb — Dr Sudhir Kumar MD DM (@hyderabaddoctor) December 15, 2025

4. Periodic health checks and healthy habits save lives

We all have heard this many times that early diagnosis and treatment can help save lives and prevent matters from getting worse. To ensure you lead a disease-free life, it is vital to get health check ups done periodically. This is a healthy habit that can hold you in good stead in the long run

5. Panic helps no one; prevention does

A lot of people either bury their head in the sand and think that nothing will ever go wrong, whereas some get all panicky when some symptoms manifest. The important thing to deal with any health situation is the ability to take proactive, course corrective measures. Panicking will only aggravate stress and not prevent things from going worse.

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FAQs on young people becoming more prone to heart diseases:

Q. Why are heart diseases increasing among young people?

Poor diet, lack of physical activity, stress, smoking, alcohol use, and sedentary lifestyles are major contributors.

Q. What heart disease symptoms should young adults watch for?

Chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, fatigue, dizziness, and unexplained sweating should not be ignored.

Q. Can stress really affect heart health in the young?

Yes, chronic stress can raise blood pressure and inflammation, increasing the risk of heart disease.

Q. Are genetics responsible for early heart disease?

Genetics play a role, but unhealthy lifestyle habits often trigger heart problems at a younger age.

Q. How can young people reduce their heart disease risk?

Regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, stress management, and routine health check-ups help protect heart health.

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.