Rising heart attacks among young Indian women linked to genetic risk: Experts urge early screening

Heart attacks were earlier commonly seen in older people. However, currently, the younger population, especially women aged 30-40, is also at an increased risk of cardiovascular issues, particularly heart attacks. Women, in particular, may overlook early warning signs, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Early screening, awareness of family history, and preventive care are now more important than ever to reduce the rising burden of heart disease among the younger population.Richa Kumar (name changed), a 35-year-old working professional from South Mumbai, and mother of 2, had always considered herself healthy. Only with symptoms such as fatigue and mild chest discomfort, she dismissed these signs, thinking it was because of stress, her busy routine, and overexertion. However, in January 2026, she suffered from severe chest pain and breathlessness and was diagnosed with a heart attack. Further evaluation revealed a strong genetic predisposition. The patient's father had suffered from heart disease in his 35s. However, the patient didn’t follow up on this and did not attend regular cardiac screening. The patient underwent angioplasty for 80% of blockages and was discharged on the 4th day. The patient has now recovered well and comes in for regular follow-ups. So, timely diagnosis and treatment remain crucial for everyone. It is the need of the hour to understand your family history, ensure cardiac screening without fail, and keep the heart healthy.According to Dr Bipeenchandra Bhamre, Consultant Cardiac Surgeon at Sir H. N. Reliance Foundation Hospital and Research Centre in Mumbai, there are many young patients like this woman who can experience a heart attack at a young age. Hence, it is imperative to pay attention to heart health. He further said, “We are witnessing a surge in heart attacks among young Indians, particularly women aged 30-40. Moreover, genetics plays a major role in this trend. Many people may not have obvious risk factors such as obesity or smoking, and yet can get a heart attack because of family history. Common symptoms such as chest discomfort, fatigue, shortness of breath, or even jaw and back pain are often ignored, mainly by women, due to the lack of time. If not treated promptly, it can lead to heart failure or recurrent cardiac events. Early screening, especially for those with a family history, along with eating a balanced diet, exercising daily, stress management by doing yoga and meditation, can save the hearts of Young Indians.”“Women’s heart health is neglected due to personal and professional responsibilities. The symptoms can be different and less typical in women compared to men. Hormonal changes, pregnancy-related conditions, and genetic factors can impact the heart. So, women can notice signs and symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, back pain, or jaw pain. Of course, the classic signs of severe chest pain are also seen in many women, but are often linked to acidity and heartburn. Timely intervention can make a huge difference in preventing complications like heart failure and death. Women should know their family history and protect their hearts,” concluded Dr. Sonamm Tiwari, Robotic & Laparoscopic Gynecologist, Gleneagles Hospital, Parel, Mumbai.Medical experts consulted This article includes expert inputs shared with TOI Health by: Dr. Sonamm Tiwari, Robotic & Laparoscopic Gynecologist, Gleneagles Hospital, Parel, MumbaiDr Bipeenchandra Bhamre, Consultant Cardiac Surgeon at Sir H. N. Reliance Foundation Hospital and Research Centre in MumbaiInputs were used to explain how genetics is responsible for heart diseases in women.