SRINAGAR, OCT 16: In a major concern for heart health in younger generations, one in five people die due to heart attack below 40 years of age in Kashmir.
Once considered predominantly affecting the elderly, heart attacks are increasingly becoming a reality for a significant number of young adults in Kashmir. The reasons behind this disconcerting trend are multifaceted.
One contributing factor according to experts is the changing lifestyles among people.
“The fast-paced, stressful lives that many lead, often characterized by poor dietary habits and a lack of physical activity, are taking a toll on heart health. Junk food, sedentary behaviour, and high levels of stress are leading culprits,” said Dr Adil Wani, a cardiologist.
He said around 20 percent of people who die due to heart attacks are below 40 in Kashmir.
Moreover, as society grapples with rising rates of obesity and diabetes, he said younger people are increasingly falling prey to these risk factors, which in turn heighten their chances of experiencing a heart attack.
Experts say this life-threatening condition occurs when the artery responsible for supplying blood and oxygen to the heart becomes blocked, leading to reduced oxygen and blood flow to the heart muscles, which can result in permanent damage.
Experts have revealed that, in many cases, young patients with heart attacks present typical symptoms such as chest pain radiating to the arm and excessive sweating (diaphoresis).
Dr Adil also pointed out that the COVID-19 pandemic has also contributed to the rise in heart attacks among young patients.
A survey from the National Health Family Survey-5 reveals high rates of cigarette smoking in Jammu & Kashmir and other substance abuse, including opioids, inhalants, and codeine, has become a significant factor contributing to heart attacks among young people. Heroin, in particular, is a prevalent drug in the region, with a sharp increase in overdose-related deaths.
The stressors of unemployment and the constant pressure of social media according to experts are additional factors negatively impacting heart health among the youth.
A cardiologist at GMC Srinagar said a lack of a strong support system and financial distress often drive young individuals to unhealthy coping mechanisms.
To address these issues and maintain a healthy heart, the doctor recommended adopting a balanced diet, reducing the intake of junk and processed foods, staying physically active, and seeking medical help promptly when heart attack symptoms arise.
