Cardiovascular disease among young Indians: 4 lifestyle changes, diet tips to avoid heart issues

Did you know that cardiovascular disease (CVD) is infiltrating young Indians’ lives at an alarming rate?

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is India’s leading cause of death, accounting for 26.6% of all fatalities but what is concerning is the rising prevalence of CVD among young Indians.

In fact, according to a study conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research, the incidence of CVD in people aged 30-44 years has increased by 300% over the last two decades. This is a major public health issue because early-onset CVD can have devastating consequences such as heart attack, stroke, and premature death.

The Youth and Cardiovascular Health
Dr Arul Dominic Furtado, Consultant – Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery at Aster CMI Hospital in Bangalore, explained, “CVD refers to a group of conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels, including coronary artery disease, heart attacks, and strokes. The rise in CVD among young Indians is shocking. Sedentary lifestyles, poor dietary choices, stress, and genetic predisposition are all factors contributing to this rise. It’s past time to dispel the myth that CVD is only a problem for the elderly. Recent statistics and case studies suggest otherwise.”

According to him, CVD is becoming more common among young Indians for a variety of reasons. These are some examples:

The Consequences of Early-Onset CVD
Dr Arul Dominic Furtado cautioned, “CVD that develops early in life can be fatal. People who develop CVD at a young age are more likely to have a severe form of the disease and to die as a result of it. Early-onset CVD can also negatively impact a person’s quality of life. People suffering from CVD may experience chronic pain, fatigue, and other health issues. They may also be required to make lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and altering their diet.”