Mumbai heart specialist explains why even ‘young, healthy-looking adults’ are vulnerable to coronary heart assaults; shares warning indicators

According to an AIIMS-ICMR study, revealed within the Indian Journal of Medical Research in 2025, discovered that sudden deaths amongst younger, seemingly wholesome Indians, notably these aged 18–45, are largely linked to undiagnosed coronary heart illness, with cardiovascular points accounting for 42.6% of circumstances, whereas a smaller portion remained unexplained, possible resulting from inherited electrical issues of the guts.

Why younger, seemingly wholesome individuals nonetheless face coronary heart assaults

“‘Apparent health’ is often used to describe young people who experience heart attacks or sudden instances of heart failure. However, youth, a good physical appearance, and lack of symptoms do not indicate that the heart is functioning perfectly. Chances are that these individuals’ risk factors were never identified,” says Dr Pratik.

According to Dr Giri, atherosclerotic heart problems (ASCVD) is the most typical underlying danger. “This involves a gradual build-up of cholesterol and fatty material on the walls of the arteries.”

He adds, “In the early stages, the disease passes unnoticed. When the arterial blockage is less than 50%, there are usually no symptoms. Mild discomfort may appear only during extreme exertion, and symptoms at rest show up only when the blockage exceeds 70%. So, a young person may feel perfectly fine until a plaque ruptures suddenly, leading to a major heart attack or heart failure.”

What lifestyle factors increase the risk of heart disease in youth

Lifestyle changes over the years have increased risks among young people. “Smoking, e-cigarettes, drug abuse like cocaine or marijuana, poor eating habits, obesity, physical inactivity, stress, irregular sleep patterns, and excessive alcohol consumption all accelerate the deterioration of heart artery health. Certain medications can also trigger sudden spasms or arrhythmias,” Dr Giri notes.

Heart failure symptoms are often overlooked in the youth. “Problems with breathing, sweating, dizziness, discomfort, nausea, or a heart-related pinch in the chest are sometimes mistaken for acidity or anxiety. This delays hospital visits and can worsen outcomes,” he explains.

Dr Giri stresses that young individuals with diabetes, hypertension, obesity, a history of smoking or substance abuse, sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy diets, high stress levels, poor sleep, or a family history of premature heart disease should undergo regular heart check-ups.

How heart attacks and heart failure be prevented early

“Prevention begins by identifying risks early. Basic screening tests like blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol checks should be done regularly. Depending on risk factors, doctors may recommend ECG, echocardiography, or treadmill stress tests. Advanced non-invasive exams reminiscent of CT Coronary Calcium Scoring and CT Coronary Angiography are additionally very helpful for detecting hidden blockages earlier than an assault happens,” Dr Giri advises.

He concludes, “Heart disease can largely be prevented. Exercise, a balanced diet, sound sleep, stress management, avoidance of tobacco and drugs, and periodic health check-ups are the foundations of a healthy heart. Early screening saves lives and helps prevent sudden heart attacks. Prevention should always start early.”

Note to readers: This article is for informational functions solely and never an alternative choice to skilled medical recommendation. Always search the recommendation of your physician with any questions on a medical situation.