RISING CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE (CVD) IN INDIAN YOUTH

1. RISING CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE (CVD) IN INDIAN YOUTH

Context

India’s demographic dividend is under threat as Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) rises among young adults aged 20–40.

Key Point:

• Nearly 50% of heart attack patients in India are now aged 20–40, marking a major health concern with serious social and economic impacts.

Causes and Risk Factors

Medical experts point to lifestyle choices as the primary driver of early-onset heart diseases, with genetic predisposition further amplifying risks. When poor lifestyle habits combine with hereditary vulnerabilities, the likelihood of developing CVD rises by more than 70%.

Major Risk Factors:

Young Indians face rising heart disease risk due to unhealthy lifestyles, including sedentary routines, reliance on junk foods, smoking, and alcohol.

Key Factors:

• Chronic stress from work and urban life.
• Sleep disorders, often caused by late digital use; 7–8 hours of good sleep is needed for heart health.
• Physical inactivity raises chances of obesity, diabetes, and hypertension.

Early Warning Signs

• Chest pain during exercise.
• Unexplained chest discomfort.
• Shortness of breath.
• Excessive sweating without exertion.
• Persistent fatigue in daily tasks.

Solutions and Preventive Measures

Tackling this crisis requires both individual responsibility and systemic intervention.

At the Individual Level:

• Adopting a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
   
• Engaging in at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity weekly.
   
• Ensuring adequate and consistent sleep routines.
   
• Avoiding tobacco, alcohol, and excessive processed food intake.
   
• Undergoing regular health checkups and cardiac screenings.
   

At the Policy Level:

• Government programs like the National Program for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS) and Ayushman Bharat aim to improve awareness, screening, and treatment access.
   
• However, data from 2024 shows that only 25% of Indians have correctly identified and addressed heart-related issues, highlighting the need for more intensive awareness campaigns.
   

Socio-Economic Implications

The rising incidence of cardiovascular disease among young Indians represents a major socio-economic setback.

• Loss of Workforce: Heart ailments in the 20–40 age group cut short the most productive years of life, undermining India’s economic potential.
   
• Financial Strain: Medical costs and loss of income place heavy burdens on families, especially those in middle- and lower-income groups.
   
• National Impact: With a growing portion of its young population at risk, India’s demographic dividend could become a demographic liability if urgent steps are not taken.
   

Conclusion

The rise in cardiovascular diseases among India’s youth is a serious health and economic concern. With lifestyle changes, early detection, and robust government health programs, this trend can be reversed. Protecting heart health is crucial for individual well-being and sustaining the nation’s growth and productivity.