Leading cardiologists have raised serious concerns over the sharp rise in heart attacks among individuals aged 30 to 50, with almost half of all cases now occurring in people under 49. Experts attribute this growing crisis largely to poor lifestyle habits, including inadequate sleep, chronic stress, and unhealthy diets.
Disturbing Trend Among Younger Populations
Speaking to a local news channel on Sunday, Dr. Abdul Hakeem, a prominent cardiologist, revealed that more young and otherwise healthy individuals are experiencing sudden heart attacks—often without any prior warning symptoms.
“We are witnessing a disturbing trend where young, otherwise healthy individuals are collapsing due to heart attacks, often without any prior warning signs,” Dr. Hakeem stated.
According to him, the root causes include sleep deprivation, unmanaged mental stress, sedentary routines, and diets heavy in processed foods.
National Institute Report Findings
Citing the latest National Institute for Heart report, Dr. Hakeem highlighted that 47% of heart attack cases in Pakistan now occur in people under 50—a sharp rise compared to previous decades. The report identifies several contributing factors:
- Irregular sleep schedules
- High caffeine intake
- Smoking and vaping habits
- Lack of physical activity
- Increased rates of stress-related disorders
The Institute has urged regular cardiovascular screenings starting at age 30, consistent physical exercise, balanced diets, and prioritizing mental well-being as immediate countermeasures.
A Growing Public Health Crisis
Adding his voice to the concern, Dr. Jahangir Ali Shah, senior cardiologist and public health advocate, called the situation not just a medical problem but a national public health emergency.
“What we are seeing is the cumulative impact of poor lifestyle choices made over years—people skipping sleep, living on junk food, glued to screens, and operating under relentless stress,” Dr. Shah explained.
He warned that without urgent reforms at both the individual and societal levels, the trend could overwhelm the country’s healthcare infrastructure. Dr. Shah urged workplaces, schools, and community organizations to actively promote heart health through preventive education and early intervention programs.
Call for Awareness and Lifestyle Changes
Both cardiologists stressed that heart disease is no longer confined to older adults—younger age groups are increasingly at risk. They emphasized:
- Timely public awareness campaigns
- Regular health check-ups after age 30
- Managing stress effectively
- Maintaining a heart-healthy diet
- Staying physically active
- Getting adequate, quality sleep
They also urged policymakers to expand accessible cardiac care services and strengthen national-level prevention strategies to reverse the alarming surge in early-age heart disease.
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