Why Are Young Indians Having More Heart Attacks?
By Dr. Raghvendra Choudhary, DM Cardiology
India has witnessed a troubling rise in heart attacks among young adults — a phenomenon that cardiologists across the country are deeply concerned about.
Why the Increase? - Sedentary lifestyle: Office jobs, long commutes, minimal physical activity - Unhealthy diet: Fast food, refined carbohydrates, excess sugar and trans fats - Chronic stress: Work pressure, financial stress, sleep deprivation - Smoking: High prevalence among young Indian males - Undetected risk factors: Undiagnosed hypertension, diabetes and high cholesterol - Genetic predisposition: South Asians have a higher baseline cardiac risk
Warning Signs for Young People Young patients often dismiss symptoms as "just stress" or acidity. Any chest discomfort, unexplained breathlessness, palpitations or family history of early heart disease warrants a cardiac evaluation.
What You Can Do - Get a cardiac health check-up from age 25 if you have risk factors - Quit smoking immediately - Move for at least 30 minutes every day - Prioritise sleep (7–8 hours) - Manage stress with structured relaxation techniques