Many youngsters are now dying due to heart attacks. What is the reason behind this? The Kolkata Mail correspondent Priyanka Dutta caught up with Dr. Ayan Kar, Consultant, Interventional Cardiology, Narayana Health, to understand the reasons for such attacks and ways to prevent them.

Why are heart attacks becoming more common among young, seemingly fit individuals?

Dr. Ayan Kar- Because of stress, poor lifestyles, unsupervised and over-the-counter supplements, and unregulated addictions. These silent contributors disrupt physical and mental balance, making even young and active individuals susceptible to cardiac events.

What risk factors make young women more vulnerable to heart disease today?

Dr. Ayan Kar- The use of contraceptive pills, increasing cases of coronary spasms, broken heart syndrome, and spontaneous coronary artery dissections play a role. Also unrecognized is the uptrend in women smoking conspicuously, which adds significantly to their cardiovascular risk.

What early signs or symptoms are often missed?

Dr. Ayan Kar- Chest discomfort on exertion is often missed or misinterpreted as signs of indigestion. However, these symptoms can be acute in onset and of significant severity, requiring urgent attention.

Can lifestyle factors like stress, poor sleep, hormonal changes, or intense workouts silently harm the heart?

Dr. Ayan Kar- Yes. Absolutely—human circadian rhythms are not to be played with. Disruptions in sleep, unmanaged stress, or pushing the body too far can quietly strain the heart over time.

What steps can young adults take to assess and reduce their risk?

Dr. Ayan Kar– Raise awareness, understand that they are vulnerable, improve wellness, invest in me time, resort back to playing sports, and socialize physically rather than on digital media. These conscious changes can make a powerful difference.