Young Adults Face Rising Heart Attack Risk: Lifestyle, Stress Blamed

• Heart attacks among those under 40 now constitute 6-10% of global cases, with India showing higher rates.
• Sedentary lifestyles, diets high in processed foods, and weight gain contribute to diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol.
• Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression elevate cortisol, increasing blood pressure and encouraging unhealthy coping mechanisms like smoking.
• Lack of regular medical check-ups often leaves conditions like high cholesterol or hypertension undetected until serious cardiac events occur.
• Prevention is possible through regular screenings, balanced diet, physical activity, mental well-being practices, and avoiding tobacco/drugs.

Why It Matters: Young adults face increasing heart attack risk due to lifestyle, stress; early prevention is crucial.