Rise in heart attack cases among youths

Mysuru: Over the past two years, there was a significant increase in heart attack cases among individuals aged 25 to 30, according to Dr KS Sadananda, medical superintendent of Jayadeva Hospital, Mysuru. Alarmingly, 25% of heart attack victims do not survive long enough to reach the hospital.
Dr Sadananda attributed some fatalities to unaccustomed physical exercises, which place undue strain on the heart. He pointed out a noticeable rise in heart attack cases post-Covid-19, suggesting a possible link to the pandemic's long-term effects on cardiovascular health.
The rise in heart attack incidents among young adults can be attributed to various factors: lifestyle changes, sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy food habits, increased stress, environmental pollution, post-Covid effects, and exercise mismanagement.
This comes amidst the tragic death of 26-year-old kabaddi player Preetham Shetty while playing a match at Sukhadare village in Nagamangala taluk in neighbouring Mandya district last week. Preetham, a resident of Nadumane, Mutlupadi in Hebri taluk, Udupi district, experienced chest pain.
Early detection of a heart attack is crucial for timely treatment, experts said, adding common symptoms include chest pain, pain radiating to the left arm or neck, and repeated vomiting.
Ramesh, a kabaddi coach at the University of Mysore, emphasised the importance of structured training and proper practice. He noted that late-night matches, poor preparation, and performance-enhancing drugs significantly contribute to heart attacks.
Rakshith Poojari, a kabaddi player, said, "Due to carelessness, players are suffering from various health problems. Some youngsters are indulging in bad habits. To enhance their performance, they take drugs including tablets and syringes. These drugs will increase blood pressure, which in turn leads to heart-related problems. Apart from this, without practice, straight away they play matches, which should also be avoided."
Anthony Moses, physical education director at Teresian College, highlighted excessive stress and lack of awareness about physical limits as major risk factors, especially for athletes. This concerning trend underscores the urgent need for lifestyle changes, awareness, and preventive measures to protect the heart health of young adults, he said.