Early heart screening vital as cases rise among India’s young adults, say cardiologists

Cardiologists are urging Indians, including those in their 20s and 30s, to undergo regular heart screening as the country witnesses a marked rise in cardiovascular diseases among young adults, often driven by lifestyle changes. Experts say early detection can help in timely intervention through preventive measures, lifestyle modification, and, where necessary, treatment — potentially averting severe complications.

Highlighting the trend, Dr. Chirag D, Consultant in Interventional Cardiology at Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru, said heart health is “no longer just for the middle-aged or older.” He noted a significant increase over the past decade in lifestyle-related risk factors among young adults, including elevated stress levels, physical inactivity, poor sleep, unhealthy diet, smoking, and high cholesterol. “This change makes early heart tests not merely desirable but necessary,” he added.

Dr. Narasimha Pai, Head of Department and Consultant in Cardiology at KMC Hospital, Mangaluru, said heart issues in younger populations are now “the major talk of the town.” He pointed out that even sportspersons, actors, and other public figures considered physically fit have landed in emergency departments with cardiac problems, prompting questions about the causes. “The extent of automation, machinery dependence, and a fast-paced lifestyle are major contributors to the rise in heart problems among youngsters,” he said.

According to Dr. Pai, unhealthy habits such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are widespread not only in metropolitan areas but also in smaller cities, further elevating risks. “Earlier, coronary artery disease was largely seen in the elderly, where prolonged fat deposition in blood vessels would cause blockages, leading to heart attacks. Now, people as young as 30 to 45 years are experiencing such conditions. This marks a paradigm shift in the age group vulnerable to heart attacks,” he observed.

The doctors emphasised that periodic heart check-ups, including ECGs, echocardiograms, and lipid profile tests, can help detect underlying problems before symptoms emerge. They also advised adopting balanced diets, regular physical activity, stress management, and adequate sleep as preventive strategies.

With heart disease continuing to be one of India’s leading causes of death, experts warn that raising awareness and encouraging screenings among young adults could play a critical role in reversing the trend.