'I would never smoke': Cardiologist addresses 15% increase in heart issues among young people

Sowmya Raju | NT

Bengaluru: A new study has found that the number of heart-related admissions for people under the age of 30 in Bengaluru has increased by 15 per cent in the past year.

Recently, Ayush Gupta, a 27-year-old student pursuing the Post Graduate Programme (PGP) in management at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Bengaluru, tragically passed away from a sudden cardiac arrest.

Another 20-year-old mechanical engineering student died of cardiac arrest an hour after he participated in a marathon this week as per media reports.

A study conducted by the National Heart Institute found that the most common heart conditions seen in young people in Bengaluru are hyperlipidaemia (high cholesterol), obesity, diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure), smoking, and lack of physical activity.

These conditions can lead to heart attacks, strokes, and other serious health problems.

The reasons for the increase in heart disease among young people in Bengaluru are not fully understood, but they are likely due to a combination of factors, including, a rise in obesity and diabetes, the increasing prevalence of smoking, the decline in physical activity, changing nature of work, which is leading to more sedentary lifestyles.

Cardiologist Dr Jagadish Hiremath, Managing Director and Chairman of AASRA Hospitals, has warned against the dangers of smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

"As a cardiologist, I would never smoke," Dr Hiremath said.

"Smoking is the worst thing one can do to their heart."

He also noted that he is seeing an increase in alcohol consumption among young people, which is also extremely harmful to the heart. Dr Hiremath urged people over the age of 30 to get an annual check-up and those over the age of 35 to get a biannual check-up.

He also recommended that everyone get at least 180 to 200 minutes of exercise per week and avoid refined carbohydrates.

"It is foolish for anyone to smoke," Dr Hiremath said.

"And even if you don't smoke, it is important to stay away from passive smoking." Dr Hiremath's advice is consistent with the latest guidelines from the American Heart Association, which recommend that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity each week.

The guidelines also recommend that adults limit their intake of refined carbohydrates and sugary drinks. The study's findings are a wake-up call for young people in Bengaluru.

Heart disease is no longer just a disease of older adults. It is becoming increasingly common in young people, and it is important to take steps to protect your heart health early on.