KURNOOL: Heart problems, once common only in older adults, are now alarmingly affecting the younger population. Changing food habits, lack of physical activity and an increasingly sedentary lifestyle are putting even people in their 20s and 30s at serious risk of heart disease.
Doctors at the Government General Hospital (GGH), Kurnool, report that nearly 5 per cent of heart cases are related to those below the age of 40 years.
Cardiologists point out that obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption, high-calorie diets and lack of regular exercise are among the major reasons behind this worrying trend. Even young people who appear fit are collapsing suddenly during gym workouts, games, or even brisk walks.
Doctors warn that hidden cardiac issues among relatively younger people are going undetected, leading to sudden deaths.
Kurnool GGH cardiologist Dr Chinta Prabhakar Reddy said apart from lifestyle, unhealthy habits, like smoking and drinking are major contributors to the problem. He suggested that young people take preventive steps early — such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, managing stress and avoiding tobacco and alcohol — to ensure that their hearts are healthy.
“Even though many people are consuming millets and other hygienic food, youngsters in the district are still developing heart-related ailments. This suggests that it is not just food, but several other factors that are contributing to heart conditions. In fact, some diabetic patients appear to be healthier than these fragile youngsters,” said K. Murali Krishna, a private employee from B. Camp area.
Data from the hospital shows that of the 430 patients who have been advised angioplasty (stent placement) last year, the age of 125 ranged between 25 years and 40 years. Since this data only reflects patients who come to GGH, doctors believe the actual number of youngsters with heart problems could be much higher.
Recent trends related to total patients surveyed show that 10 per cent of them suffer from heart-related conditions. Over 5 per cent of them are aged between 25 years and 40 years.
Doctors caution that excessive consumption of sugar, meat, fats, butter and oils are increasing the risk. Over-exercising in gyms to build physical strength can also put pressure on the heart and lead to blockages in blood vessels.
Medical experts reiterate that a balanced diet, active lifestyle and early screening for heart health can go a long way in preventing unwelcome outcomes.
