Raquel Hutt’s experience highlights a concerning trend among young adults: heart attacks, which were once rare in this age group, are becoming more common. When Hutt, a 24-year-old woman, called 911 due to severe chest pain, paramedics dismissed her symptoms, attributing them to a panic attack.
However, her mother insisted she be taken to the hospital, where doctors confirmed that Hutt had suffered a heart attack. Her story underscores the misconception that heart attacks are only for older adults or those with obvious risk factors, pointing to a disturbing rise in cardiovascular events among young people.
Heart attacks in young adults are still relatively uncommon but are on the rise. In the U.S., the rate of heart attacks among adults aged 18 to 44 increased by more than 66% between 2019 and 2023. While this age group still accounts for a small percentage of heart attack cases, the increase in incidence is concerning.
Interestingly, the rate of heart attacks in older age groups has been declining, further highlighting the unique challenges faced by younger adults. Doctors are still working to understand why heart attacks are becoming more prevalent in this demographic.
One major factor contributing to the rise in heart attacks among young adults is the increasing rates of obesity. Research shows that obesity is becoming more prevalent in younger adults, particularly in those under 50. This is concerning because obesity is a known risk factor for heart disease, as it often leads to other conditions like hypertension and diabetes.
Experts argue that poor eating habits, formed in childhood during the era of fast food, have persisted into adulthood, contributing to poor cardiovascular health. These unhealthy eating patterns, combined with sedentary lifestyles, are fueling what some call the “diabesity epidemic.”
The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated the situation. The virus is known to damage the cardiovascular system, causing complications like myocarditis (heart inflammation). While severe COVID-related heart issues are more common in older adults, young adults with pre-existing risk factors, such as obesity, are also vulnerable.
Studies have shown that heart attack deaths among people aged 25 to 44 were significantly higher during the pandemic, and a considerable number of young people experience heart-related symptoms in the year following a COVID-19 infection. The long-term effects of COVID on heart health are still being studied.
Another contributing factor to the rise in heart attacks among young adults is the lack of health care engagement, particularly among young men. Men in this age group are less likely to seek medical care for preventative health screenings, and many may not be aware of their risk factors until they experience a cardiovascular event.
In contrast, young women are more likely to visit the doctor for gynecological checkups, where risk factors for heart disease might be discovered earlier. This disparity in health care access and awareness can lead to heart attacks being detected too late.
The increase in heart attacks among younger women is particularly alarming. Research indicates that hospitalizations for heart attacks among women aged 35 to 54 have risen significantly over the past few decades. Experts suggest that a combination of factors is contributing to this trend, including the rise of obesity, smoking, and vaping.
Smoking, in particular, is a serious risk factor, and young women are more likely to take up smoking during their college years, often as a weight management tool. The rising popularity of e-cigarettes also contributes to the problem, as they may have the same negative effects on cardiovascular health as traditional cigarettes.
Stress and hormonal factors also appear to play a significant role in the increased risk of heart attacks among young women. Many younger women face higher levels of stress, particularly related to social media and societal expectations.
Chronic stress can disrupt menstrual cycles and lead to lower estrogen levels, which in turn increases the risk of heart disease. Additionally, the interplay between stress, periods, and hormonal fluctuations is an emerging area of research, with studies suggesting that stress management and hormonal balance are critical to preventing cardiovascular problems in young women.
To reduce the risk of heart attack, experts recommend several lifestyle changes. A heart-healthy diet, including fresh fruits and vegetables and minimizing processed foods, can significantly reduce the risk. Regular physical activity, such as walking 7,000 steps a day or engaging in moderate exercise for at least two and a half hours each week, is also essential for maintaining cardiovascular health.
Quitting smoking, improving sleep habits, and reducing alcohol consumption are other important steps. Moreover, managing weight and regularly checking cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels can help detect risk factors early, potentially preventing heart attacks. Regular medical check-ups, particularly for those with a family history of heart disease, are crucial for identifying and managing health risks.
