Pune : The recent spate of heart attacks and incidents of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) – especially in the young population in Pune – have been a cause for concern. A study conducted this year on the city’s population revealed that over 41 per cent of test subjects in the age group of 25 to 40 showed elevated levels of homocysteine in their blood stream. High homocysteine level is considered one of the independent risk marker of heart disease.
Keeping this alarming trend in mind, on World Heart Day, doctors in Pune sought to draw attention to risk factors among younger population and the need for timely check-ups and medical intervention.
CAD leading cause of death in India
India’s burden of Cardiovascular diseases has always been higher than the rest of the world. However, now, a trend has been observed where the patient age has started dropping much below the global average – almost 33 per cent earlier than other demographics, as per the Indian Heart Association.
The mortality metrics are not much better.
According to a World Health Organization study conducted in 2016, CVDs accounted for 45 per cent of deaths in the 40-69 year age group. Anecdotal evidence and reports from the media indicate this trend has been on the rise ever since.
If we extrapolate from the crude death data, in Maharashtra alone, CVD accounts for approximately 1.54 deaths per thousand population in a year.
Risk factors that affect the young
Dr. Rajendra Patil, Interventional Cardiologist, Jupiter Hospital, Baner, Pune said “Based on my clinical experience from Pune, the primary risk factors that predispose individuals to heart diseases are lifestyle disorders, including high cholesterol, hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes, and obesity, among others. Unhealthy habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, sedentary lifestyles, and a diet rich in junk food further contribute to heart disease. Additionally, a hectic lifestyle, congenital disorders, or a family history of heart issues can increase the risk of developing cardiac problems.”
Know what to look for
Chest pain, often dismissed as acidity or indigestion, is one of the most common warning signs of heart disease. It should never be ignored. Symptoms such as chest tightness, a heavy feeling, palpitations, pain in the upper limbs, increased sweating, shortness of breath, belching, light-headedness, heartburn, and rapid heartbeat should be taken seriously. Early diagnosis is crucial, as early detection can lead to successful treatment.
Coronary Artery Disease
“Out of the number of heart ailments, one of the diseases that is being increasingly seen among youngsters is Coronary Artery Disease (CAD). CAD remains a significant health concern in India, affecting a substantial portion of the population. Lifestyle modifications, regular exercise, and routine heart health check-ups are essential in mitigating CAD risks,” said Dr Patil. “The preferred treatment option for CAD is stent placement via coronary angioplasty, a minimally invasive procedure that opens clogged heart arteries. Today with the availability of bioresorbable stents, treatment outcomes have improved significantly,” he added.
Early diagnosis, timely intervention can save lives
Dr.Rajendra Patil, Interventional cardiologist, Jupiter hospital, Baner, Pune says, “Conscious change in lifestyle and dietary habits can help lower the risk of not only CVDs but also other non-communicable diseases such as hypertension and diabetes. People should not discount this advice because of its simplicity.”
“Early routine screening for high BP, lipid profile, sugar testing, etc, for youngsters is highly recommended. Those with a family history or above the age of 30 can add ECG, stress echo, to these tests,” he recommended.
