Causes and ways to prevent youth heart attacks: Understanding the risk factors
In recent years, there has been a concerning increase in the number of heart attacks among young women. This trend, driven by several risk factors, requires immediate attention and action to reduce the risks and improve outcomes.
One of the primary contributors to this rise is lifestyle factors. Poor diet, high in processed and fatty foods, lack of exercise due to sedentary and screen-heavy lifestyles, smoking, vaping, alcohol use, and increasing stress levels significantly contribute to the increase in heart attacks in young women [1][2][4].
Another significant factor is the rising rates of metabolic conditions such as obesity, high blood pressure (hypertension), type 2 diabetes, and early onset metabolic syndrome in people under 40. These conditions strongly increase cardiovascular risk [2][3][4].
Chronic inflammation and autoimmune disorders, like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and chronic gum disease, also play a role. These diseases cause ongoing inflammation, which promotes arterial plaque formation and increases heart attack risk, sometimes even in the mid-20s [3].
Blood clotting disorders, such as rare inherited conditions like factor V Leiden or antiphospholipid syndrome, also increase the risk of arterial clots, leading to heart attacks in young adults [3].
Women often exhibit subtler heart attack symptoms than men, leading to delays in recognition and treatment. They are also less likely to receive guideline-recommended care [1][5].
Prevention strategies focus on early detection, lifestyle modification, and education to reduce these risks. Lifestyle modification emphasizes a healthy diet low in processed foods, regular physical activity, stress management, avoiding smoking and vaping, and reducing alcohol consumption [1][2][4].
Early screening and management of risk factors are also crucial. Regular medical check-ups to monitor blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, and inflammatory markers (like C-reactive protein) help identify risks before cardiovascular disease develops [3][4].
Increasing awareness among women about the unique symptoms of heart attacks, the seriousness of cardiovascular disease, and encouraging timely medical help can reduce delays in treatment and improve outcomes [1][5].
Healthcare systems need to focus on equitable care delivery to women, including better referral to cardiologists and adherence to treatment guidelines, to reduce morbidity and mortality rates [5].
The 2017 AAP Guideline introduced a lower threshold for diagnosing high blood pressure, and almost half of the reclassified young people had obesity [6]. The long-term impacts on the heart and other areas of health from e-cigarettes are not yet known.
In summary, the rise in heart attacks among young women is linked mainly to modifiable lifestyle factors combined with metabolic and inflammatory conditions. Prevention requires a comprehensive approach addressing early detection, lifestyle changes, and greater awareness tailored to women’s specific cardiovascular health needs [1][2][3][4][5].
References: [1] American Heart Association. (2021). Heart disease and stroke statistics - 2021 update: A report from the American Heart Association. Circulation, 143(9), e576-e688. [2] Benjamin EJ, Muntner P, Alonso A, Bittencourt MS, Callaway CW, Carson A, et al. (2019). Heart disease and stroke statistics-2019 update: a report from the American Heart Association. Circulation, 139(10), e56-e528. [3] Benjamin EJ, Muntner P, Alonso A, Bittencourt MS, Callaway CW, Carson A, et al. (2018). Heart disease and stroke statistics-2018 update: a report from the American Heart Association. Circulation, 137(12), e146-e641. [4] Go AS, Mozaffarian D, Roger VL, Benjamin EJ, Berry JD, Borden WB, et al. (2013). Circulation, 127(16), 1810-1840. [5] American Heart Association. (2021). Cardiovascular disease in women: Facts about heart disease and stroke. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-disease-and-stroke-news/cardiovascular-disease-in-women-facts-about-heart-disease-and-stroke [6] American Academy of Pediatrics. (2017). Clinical report—second update of the policy statement on screening and management of high blood pressure in children and adolescents. Pediatrics, 140(2), e20162936.
Read also:
- Soaring Dengue Fatality Counts in Bangladesh
- Frigid Conditions Pose Potential Health Risks for the Heart and Lungs
- Experiencing issues with Leqvio? Learn about its potential side effects and ways to manage them.
- Interpreting Nightly Visions: Unveiling Hidden Anxieties and Concerns Within Your Subconscious Mind
