Why Heart Attacks Are Increasingly Present in Young People
- Category: Health & Wellness, Blog
- Posted On:
- Written By: RRH
Premature Heart Disease and Heart Attacks
While the numbers of heart attacks experienced by American adults are decreasing steadily, there seems to be an increase in heart attacks in adults under the age of 40. The health experts at RRH outline the reasons why this cardiac event is more prevalent in younger adults than ever before.
Why Heart Attacks Are Affecting Younger Groups
Genetics
Your family history plays a more important role in your heart health than just checking off a box during your doctor visits; it helps your health care team determine your risk for developing heart disease. Those who have an immediate family member, like a sibling or parent, are at an increased risk for developing heart disease or experiencing cardiac events like heart attacks.
Bad Health habits
Many risk factors for developing heart disease or having a premature heart attack are controllable factors. The following lifestyle choices increase your risk:
- Eating a fatty diet high in trans fats and cholesterol.
- Leading a sedentary lifestyle.
- Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol.
- Smoking cigarettes and using tobacco products.
Heart-Healthy Lifestyle Changes to Reduce Your Risk
While bad habits can increase your risk for heart disease and cardiac events, changing to a healthier lifestyle can significantly reduce your risk. Try adding the following healthy habits to your routine to look after your cardiovascular health:
- Eat a diet rich in HDL foods.
- Try to cut out fast food.
- Cut back on sugary beverages.
- Get 7-9 hours of good-quality sleep each night.
- Get regular exercise.
- Quit using cigarettes and tobacco products.
- Avoid secondhand smoke.
- Cut back on drinking alcoholic beverages.