Why have heart attack cases increased among young people? Important warnings from experts

While heart diseases are among the deadliest diseases worldwide, it has been observed in recent years that this risk has descended to younger ages. 

Cardiology Specialist Dr. Doğaç Okşen drew attention to the increasing number of heart attack cases, especially among young individuals, and emphasized the importance of healthy nutrition and lifestyle habits for heart health.

A THREAT PREVENTABLE THROUGH LIFESTYLE

Dr. Okşen stated that most heart diseases can be prevented through lifestyle changes. “According to the World Health Organization, approximately 80% of heart diseases are preventable.

A healthy lifestyle is the greatest enemy of heart disease, and most of these conditions can be avoided with appropriate measures,” he said.

WHY HAVE HEART ATTACK CASES INCREASED AMONG YOUNG PEOPLE?

Stating that heart diseases, which are generally seen in individuals over 50, have started to be seen more frequently at younger ages today, Dr. Okşen noted that a sedentary lifestyle, poor dietary habits, and stress trigger this situation and expressed his concerns.

He pointed out that the risk increases around the age of 45 for men and around 55, after menopause, for women. He drew attention to this increase.

HEART ATTACK CASES ARE RISING RAPIDLY

Stating that approximately 200,000 people in Turkey suffer a heart attack every year, Okşen noted that cardiovascular diseases account for 36% of all deaths. he said. This high rate underscores that heart diseases are a serious health issue.

RISK FACTORS ARE CONTROLLABLE

Dr. Okşen emphasized that most of the risk factors that cause heart diseases are controllable. “Smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, being overweight, a sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy diet, and stress are the primary factors that trigger heart diseases,” he said. He pointed out that these factors can be brought under control through healthy lifestyle habits and regular health check-ups.

THE KEY TO HEART HEALTH LIES IN PROPER NUTRITION

Dr. Okşen drew attention to the necessity of a balanced and conscious diet for a healthy heart. “Vegetables, fruits, whole grains, healthy fats, and fiber-rich foods should be consumed. Excessive salt, sugary drinks, and trans fats should be avoided. A healthy diet is the most effective way to prevent heart diseases,” he stated.

10 IMPORTANT STEPS TO REDUCE THE RISK OF HEART ATTACK

To minimize the risk of a heart attack, Dr. Okşen listed the following 10 recommendations:

1) Do not smoke: It increases the risk of a heart attack by 2–4 times.

2) Exercise regularly: At least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week is recommended.

3) Eat healthy: Avoid excess salt, sugar, and trans fats.

4) Control your blood pressure: High blood pressure increases the risk of heart disease.

5) Monitor your cholesterol levels: Consume fibrous foods to lower bad cholesterol.

6) Balance your blood sugar: The risk of diabetes paves the way for heart diseases.

7) Manage stress: Reduce stress with techniques such as breathing exercises and meditation.

8) Get regular sleep: 6-8 hours of quality sleep per day is essential for heart health.

9) Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol negatively affects heart health.

10) Do not neglect health check-ups: Have regular blood pressure, cholesterol, and ECG tests.

LIFESTYLE CHANGES ARE ESSENTIAL FOR HEART HEALTH

Dr. Okşen stated that the fundamental way to reduce the risk of heart disease is to adopt healthy lifestyle habits, noting that it is of great importance to instill these habits from an early age. 

He also emphasized that families and healthcare professionals need to act consciously regarding children and young people.

News Source: 12punto