
Heart attacks once thought to be a concern of the elderly, are tragically becoming more common among young people in India. This alarming trend poses a serious public health challenge. Scientific research highlights contributing factors, although genetics play a complex role.
A problematic statistic
Studies indicate an alarming increase in heart attacks in the younger population. About 12% of all heart attack patients in India are under the age of 40. According to the World Health Organization, India accounts for one-fifth of the world's cardiovascular disease (CVD) deaths among younger adults. The age-standardized CVD death rate in India is 272 per 100,000 people, which is higher than the global average of 235.
Lifestyle shifts and contributing factors supported by studies
Genetics: Increased risk, not inevitable
While South Asians have a higher prevalence of a specific genetic variant associated with heart disease, it is important to understand:
Take Action: What the Science Suggests
Heart disease is preventable, even in the face of potential genetic susceptibility. Scientific evidence supports the importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle to protect the hearts of India's youth. Raising awareness and promoting science-informed prevention measures will be critical to reversing this trend.