India is witnessing an alarming upsurge in cardiovascular ailments. The increasing incidence of heart conditions is no longer limited to the elderly; more and more young people are falling victim to heart related ailments. Lifestyle factors, stress, and unhealthy habits are contributing to this worrying surge, with many patients in their 30s and 40s being diagnosed with coronary artery disease (CAD). Experts warn that the number of younger patients is growing rapidly, adding to the already critical global health crisis.
Dr. T.S. Mahant, Executive Director and Head-Cardiac Surgery at Fortis Hospital, Mohali, highlighted this growing issue during a media interaction, stating, “Over 50 percent of the heart patients coming for consultation are below the age of 50, which is a clear indicator that heart ailments among young people are on the rise. The situation is particularly concerning in India, where younger individuals are increasingly diagnosed with coronary artery disease.”
He further elaborated on how lifestyle changes in urban areas, as compared to rural regions where traditional diets and physical activity are more prevalent, are a key contributor in this trend. “In younger patients, particularly those aged 35-45 years, the disease often presents with more severe outcomes due to delayed diagnosis and recognition of symptoms, He also emphasized that young men remain more susceptible, though the number of young women with risk factors like smoking and obesity is rising.
Dr. Mahant shared insights on the severity of cases being treated at Fortis.
One such case involved a 24-year-old patient, a farmer from Patiala, who came in with severe coronary artery disease. After undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and removal of a heart clot, he was discharged and is now recovering well. Another case was of a 30-year-old patient, who was diagnosed with coronary artery disease and had suffered a recent heart attack. He underwent a successful CABG and was also discharged in stable condition.
Dr. Mahant highlighted that heart disease affects not only adults but also newborns and children. Congenital heart disease (CHD) is a major public health concern in India, often diagnosed late after complications have developed. As societal trends shift, older couples are more likely to give birth to children predisposed to congenital cardiac anomalies.
“Prevention is crucial,” Dr. Mahant advised. “A balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease. It’s essential to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar regularly, and to seek early medical intervention for any unusual symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath.”
