Cardiac issues among B’luru's youth: A growing concern on World Heart Day

Lifestyle changes and urban stressors escalate cardiac risks among youth, warn experts

NT Bengaluru: On World Heart Day 2024, concerns about the rising number of cardiac issues among Bengaluru’s young population are in sharp focus. Once considered a problem of the elderly, heart disease is now increasingly affecting individuals between the ages of 25-40. Dr M. Sudhakar Rao, Consultant – Cardiology at Manipal Hospital, Sarjapur Road, highlights this alarming trend. “We are witnessing a rise in heart attacks in younger individuals, especially in their late 20s to early 40s. This is a stark contrast to the earlier belief that cardiovascular diseases affect older people with existing risk factors,” Dr. Rao notes.

Several lifestyle factors contribute to this worrying trend. Sedentary habits, unhealthy diets, smoking, rising stress levels and a lack of physical activity are becoming widespread among Bengaluru's youth. Additionally, the city’s rapid urbanisation has introduced environmental stressors such as pollution, which may exacerbate these issues. The presence of high cholesterol, hypertension and diabetes at younger ages, often linked to genetic predispositions, further aggravates the risk.

“Many young people are not even aware that they are susceptible until it’s too late,” Dr. Rao adds. In contrast, stories like that of Angelo Joseph (61) offer hope and highlight the importance of preventive care and rehabilitation. Despite undergoing a complex quadruple bypass surgery in 2019, Joseph has embraced a rigorous fitness regime. He will participate in a 5.8K run on World Heart Day, followed by a 10K run in early October. His transformation from a sedentary, high-stress lifestyle to an active, heart-conscious one underscores the potential for recovery, even after severe cardiac episodes. Joseph’s journey began after he experienced chest discomfort during a morning walk. Following a failed tread-mill test and further investigations, doctors found multiple heart blockages, necessitating urgent surgery.

“I was living an unhealthy lifestyle—irregular meals, high stress, no time for exercise. I knew I had to change after my surgery,” he says. Post-operation, he took up a rehabilition programme under the guidance of cardiac specialists, gradually increasing his physical activity. He has since completed a half-marathon and several 10K runs.

His cardiologist, Dr. Tameem Ahmed of Trilife Hospital, who performed the surgery, praises Joseph’s recovery and commitment. “Angelo’s recovery shows the importance of early detection and a disciplined rehabilitation approach. With the right mindset and lifestyle changes, patients can return to active lives after major heart surgeries,” Dr. Ahmed explains.

Dr. Rao echoes similar sentiments regarding the role of prevention. He emphasises, "Prevention is better than cure. Young people, especially those with a family history of heart disease, must take proactive steps to reduce risk factors like high cholesterol, diabetes and hypertension. Regular exercise 30-45 minutes a day, five days a week along with a balanced diet, stress management and cessation of smoking, are critical to heart health.”

As World Heart Day calls for global attention to cardiovascular health, the rise in heart disease among young Bengalureans demands a shift toward preventive healthcare. “Prevention starts with awareness,” Dr. Rao stresses, urging young people to be vigilant about their heart health. With increasing cardiac cases among the youth, the message of World Heart Day prioritising heart health through lifestyle changes and early intervention has never been more relevant.

”We are witnessing a rise in heart attacks in younger individuals, especially in their late 20s to early 40s. Prevention starts with awareness." – Dr. M. Sudhakar Rao, Consultant Cardiologist, Manipal Hospital