Don’t miss the beat: Lifestyle choices fuel rise in heart disease among young Indians

As World Heart Day approaches, Dr CS Pruthi, Chairman of Capitol Hospital and President of the Punjab Medical Council, sounds the alarm on the growing prevalence of heart disease among young men and women in India. The theme this year, “Don’t Miss the Beat”, is a powerful reminder that every heartbeat matters — and early action is vital to preventing cardiovascular disease.

### Silent worker that needs attention

“The heart, a muscle roughly the size of a closed fist, works tirelessly day and night to keep us alive,” says Dr Pruthi. “It’s easy to overlook the heart’s silent and constant efforts, but we must remember that it depends on a steady flow of oxygen and nutrients delivered through the coronary arteries.”

However, when these arteries become clogged — a process that often begins quietly over time — the result can be life-threatening heart disease.

### Warning signs often ignored

Heart disease doesn’t always come with dramatic symptoms, which is why awareness is crucial. Common signs include chest heaviness, pain radiating to the arms, jaw or back, shortness of breath and unexplained fatigue.

“Many people mistake these symptoms for acidity or gas,” Dr Pruthi warns. “But if they persist for more than a few minutes, it’s critical to seek immediate medical attention.”

### The toll of modern lifestyles

Long working hours, poor eating habits, and irregular sleep cycles have become the norm for many, especially in urban areas. Dr Pruthi links these lifestyle factors directly to rising heart disease rates among those in their 30s and 40s.

“The stress of deadlines, poor dietary choices, and lack of physical activity can gradually damage the heart. Often, by the time symptoms appear, significant harm has already been done,” he cautions.

### Young adults at risk

Of growing concern is the increasing number of young adults experiencing sudden cardiac arrest, sometimes during or shortly after intense workouts.

Dr Pruthi said excessive physical exertion, the unregulated use of protein supplements and undiagnosed conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes are key contributors.

“Fitness is important, but it should be approached gradually and under professional guidance,” he says. “Over-exercising or using unapproved supplements places unnecessary strain on the heart.”

### Prevention is the best cure

Preventive care remains the most effective weapon against heart disease. Dr Pruthi urges everyone above the age of 30 to undergo regular check-ups every 1–2 years, particularly those with a family history or existing conditions such as hypertension or diabetes.

“A simple check-up that includes blood pressure, cholesterol and sugar levels, along with an ECG or echocardiography, can reveal critical information about your heart health,” he notes. “Early detection helps prevent future complications.”

For those over 40, regular screenings are recommended even in the absence of symptoms.

### Not all heart disease needs surgery

While modern interventions such as angioplasty and bypass surgery have advanced significantly, Dr Pruthi points out that not every case requires invasive treatment.

“In around 30 per cent of cases, heart disease can be effectively managed through lifestyle changes, medication and regular monitoring,” he says.

He said prevention should be the primary focus — by maintaining an active lifestyle, eating a balanced diet, managing stress and getting adequate sleep.

### Every beat counts

In an era where heart disease is increasingly affecting the younger population, Dr Pruthi’s message is both urgent and clear:

“Your heart is constantly working for you. Don’t wait for it to send an urgent signal. Listen to the beat and take action today.”

As we mark World Heart Day, it’s a timely reminder that a healthy heart is not just a matter of luck, but the result of conscious, everyday choices.

“Don’t Miss the Beat,” Dr Pruthi concludes, “because every healthy choice today is an investment in a longer, stronger tomorrow.”