In a country where more than half the population is under the age of 35, India should ideally be seen as a land of vitality, vigour, and youthful promise. Yet, the reality is quite disconcerting. Cardiovascular diseases, once considered to be primarily an old age-related affliction, are now increasingly affecting the younger generations. The metaphor ‘young at heart’ that we would often use to compliment the middle-aged or elderly for their youthfulness and energy is no longer just an expression; it has taken on a serious health connotation.
A worrying trend
In recent years, we are seeing more and more seemingly fit young Indians, in the age group of 20-40, experiencing sudden and, at times, fatal heart attacks. Data from hospitals across India between 2020 and 2023 affirms this rising health crisis, showing 50% of heart attack patients to be under 40 years. The conveniences of modern life, long working hours, sedentary routines, and dietary compromises have gradually contributed to a growing epidemic that threatens the very heart of our society. There is an immediate need for young India to understand that taking care of your heart starts today, regardless of whether you are 18 or 60.
This worrying trend has to be addressed with both urgency and clarity. Dr. Refai Showkathali, Cardiologist, Senior Consultant-Interventional Cardiology, at Apollo Hospitals Chennai, cited the decline in the mean age group of cardiology patients as unmistakable evidence of this trend. He believes that lifestyle has taken over from genetics in contributing to this trend. Earlier, it was accepted that genetics plays an important role in patients having heart attack. If a parent or a close family member had a heart attack in their 40s or 50s, then an individual’s chances of having a heart attack in 40s or 50s were also on the higher side. He believes that lifestyle has a synergistic effect along with that, and together they take the risk up to 70%.
Echoing his sentiments, Dr. Sengottuvelu G., Cardiologist, Senior Consultant-Interventional Cardiology, at Apollo Hospitals Chennai, attributes the surge in heart attacks among young Indians to hyper competition, smoking and drinking, and lack of sleep resulting from aggressive and fast-paced lifestyles. He attributes 50% of the blame for poor heart health among young adults in India to lifestyle factors. He holds that high-risk individuals can be identified through advanced diagnostic methods such as cardiac calcium scoring or CT coronary angiogram. Once these cases are detected, coronary physiology assessments and detailed imaging help in pinpointing and managing severe, obstructive blockages, ensuring timely and appropriate treatment for those most at risk.
Red flags to look out for
Knowledge is immense power. Today, it is essential for young adults to know and understand how their lifestyle choices impact their long-term health. It is critical for them to understand the subtle warning signs that their bodies may be giving and take proactive steps in in the form of appropriate medical interventions. Symptoms such as discomfort during exercising, sudden chest pain, sweating, unexplained breathlessness, or even ongoing tiredness that makes simple daily tasks hard to get through can be signs that the heart needs attention. These are not minor annoyances; early recognition and prompt medical attention won’t just prevent complications, but may also save many young lives.
It is essential that any red flags or early warning signs about potential heart issues are understood and acted upon immediately. Simple lifestyle changes and diligent health check ups can make a significant difference in preventing heart-related complications. By staying alert and active, young adults can greatly reduce their risk of heart attacks and build a foundation for healthy hearts.
The Health of the Nation 2025 report also advises actionable steps, including regular imaging-based screenings beyond lab tests, proactive monitoring of health, a targeted/personalised dietary approach based on expert opinion from doctors, and more. If adopted judiciously by the youth, these can go a long way in helping them prioritise heart health.
As a young nation, we cannot afford to dismiss early onset of heart disease casually. Heart health is not just a medical issue; it is a national concern. The government has been making significant efforts through programmes such as the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke, and Ayushman Bharat, to strengthen healthcare services, promote early detection, and expand access to treatment.
Lack of awareness, however, continues to remain a significant challenge. According to data from 2024, while many Indians are aware of the symptoms associated with heart disease, only 25% could accurately identify the correct symptoms, underlining the need for better public education on heart health. Expanding public education can help every citizen, young and old, know how to recognise and respond to the warning signs of cardiovascular distress, rather than mistake them for common digestive issues or muscle spasms. Also, by training frontline health workers and making diagnostic services more accessible, we can help save countless young lives.
Nurturing a strong, healthy heart is an urgent call for action for our younger generation, for the well-being of individuals today shapes the vitality, power, and resilience of our nation tomorrow.
Prathap C. Reddy, Founder and Chairman, Apollo Hospitals Group
