New Delhi, Aug 18 — Cardiologists across the country are sounding the alarm over a sharp increase in cardiac arrest cases among Indians in their 20s and 30s, a trend once largely confined to older age groups.
According to the Indian Heart Association, the number of heart-related emergencies in people under 40 has doubled in the last five years, with many cases occurring in gyms, offices and public events.
Medical experts attribute the concerning rise to a mix of lifestyle changes, genetic factors and post-Covid complications.
“We are now seeing 28- and 30-year-olds presenting with coronary blockages that used to occur in their 50s,” said Dr. Rahul Khanna, a senior cardiologist at AIIMS. “Sedentary lifestyles, high stress and early diabetes are creating a dangerous combination.”
Key Contributing Factors Identified by Doctors
- Sedentary lifestyle and poor physical activity
- Early onset of diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol
- Unhealthy diet with high intake of processed foods
- Chronic stress related to work and finances
- Smoking, vaping and excessive alcohol consumption
- Sudden intense workouts without medical screening
Genetic predisposition among South Asians
Additionally, doctors have reported cases where post-Covid cardiac inflammation may have contributed to rhythm disturbances and sudden collapse in young individuals.
Experts say a lack of routine health screening is also playing a role, as many young adults are unaware of underlying conditions until a cardiac event occurs.
Health Advisory
Cardiologists recommend:
- Annual ECG, lipid profile and blood pressure checks after age 25
- Regular moderate exercise and stress management
- Avoiding untrained intense workouts and performance-enhancing supplements
As Dr. Khanna warns, “The biggest myth is that heart disease is an old person’s problem. In today’s lifestyle environment, it is very much a young person’s risk.”
