Increased Cardiovascular Diseases Among Young People: Insights from Dr. Bouzina
In this interview, Dr. Bouzina, cardiologist, discusses the reasons for the increase in cardiovascular diseases among young people. It addresses risk factors and provides recommendations to prevent these diseases.
Comments collected by Sofia Ouahib
How can we explain the high number of cardiac arrests among young people?
Accumulating data on the subject shows us that young adults suffer more from heart problems compared to previous decades. This worrying phenomenon could be explained by the deterioration of lifestyle habits, in particular lack of exercise and poor diet.
Have you noticed an increase in heart disease among young people?
Effectively! Whether in my office and even in my former department at Nefissa Hamoud University Hospital (formerly Parnet), I have noticed an increase in vascular diseases among young patients.
Challenges in Seeking Help: Why Young Patients Hold Back
Young patients do not consult, for several factors. The first is that they do not feel concerned by chronic pathologies such as hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia due to the silent evolution of these conditions and the absence of clinical signs in the early stage. Additionally, the lack of communication and awareness on this subject leads to a reduced number of consultations. Finally, accessing specialized care in certain areas remains a challenge.
What are the Reasons for the Rise in Heart Disease?
Several factors contribute to this troubling trend:
- Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity is a significant contributor.
- Weight Gain and Obesity: Obesity rates among youth are rising, leading to increased heart risks.
- Smoking: A critical factor causing cardiovascular diseases.
- Chronic Diseases: An increased incidence of high blood pressure, diabetes, and hypercholesterolemia among younger patients is evident.
The Role of Lifestyle Changes
Indeed! Lifestyle change is the primary cause of the increase in cardiovascular disease among young people. Excessive sedentary behavior combined with a lack of physical activity leads to weight gain. Smoking and an unbalanced diet further exacerbate the risk of chronic illnesses such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. It’s imperative to promote a healthy lifestyle.
Promoting a Healthy Lifestyle: What Does It Entail?
To limit the surge in heart disease, adopting a healthy lifestyle from an early age is vital:
- Healthy Diet: Focus on incorporating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while avoiding saturated fats and sugars.
- Regular Exercise: Aim for at least 30 minutes of brisk walking 5 days a week or 25 minutes of running 3 times a week.
- Avoid Tobacco: Young people must quit smoking to protect their heart health.
Understanding Cardiac Arrest vs. Heart Attack
A heart attack occurs when an artery supplying the heart is blocked, leading to cell death due to insufficient oxygen. Conversely, cardiac arrest is when the heart ceases to beat and fails to supply blood and oxygen to the body’s organs. It’s crucial to note that a heart attack can lead to cardiac arrest, but not all cardiac arrests are due to a heart attack.
Undetected Heart Diseases in Young People
Effectively! Young people can carry undetected heart diseases, including congenital structural anomalies, valvular anomalies, or coronary artery anomalies, which may go unnoticed until complications arise.
Gender Differences in Heart Disease
Generally, men are more affected by heart attacks compared to women. However, the incidence in women increases after menopause, influenced by hormonal changes.
Recognizing Warning Signs of Heart Problems
Yes, there are warning signs that might suggest underlying cardiovascular issues. Symptoms include:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain radiating to the arm, neck, jaw, or shoulders
- Epigastric pain accompanied by nausea and vomiting
These symptoms should prompt an immediate consultation to assess potential cardiovascular conditions.
Top Risk Factors for Young Adults
Numerous risk factors contribute to heart issues among young people, including:
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Obesity and sedentary lifestyle
- Hypercholesterolemia
- Family history of early heart disease
The Impact of Covid-19 on Heart Health
According to certain studies, individuals who contracted Covid-19 exhibit an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disorders within the year following infection. Various conditions may arise, such as abnormal heart rhythms, thromboembolic diseases, strokes, coronary heart diseases, or heart attacks.
Frequency of Cardiac Interventions in Young Patients
Although cardiac conditions are on the rise among young individuals, cardiac interventions remain rare. The reason is that these procedures usually arise from long-term complications of existing cardiovascular diseases.
Preventive Recommendations for Young Adults
Changing one’s lifestyle is foundational for heart disease prevention:
- Maintain a healthy weight and adopt a diet low in fatty and sugary foods.
- Incorporate more green vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3-rich foods.
- Cease smoking for better cardiovascular health.
- Engage in regular physical activity.
- Diagnose and manage high blood pressure, diabetes, and dyslipidemia early.
Benefits of a Healthy Lifestyle
Implementing a healthy lifestyle has numerous benefits:
- Reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases
- Lower stress levels
- Improved mental health
- Enhanced overall well-being
Practical Tips for Heart Health
Here are some practical tips to maintain and promote heart health:
- Plan weekly meals centered around fruits and vegetables.
- Incorporate physical activities you enjoy to build consistency.
- Limit screen time and encourage active hobbies.
- Engage in free community health workshops on heart disease awareness.
