Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) occurs when the arteries supplying blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup, a condition called atherosclerosis. This reduces oxygen supply to the heart, especially during physical exertion, and when blockages exceed 70%, it can lead to a myocardial infarction, or heart attack.
While CAD was once considered an ailment of older adults, experts now warn that it is increasingly striking people in their 20s and 30s. Dr. Aditya Kumar Singh, Associate Director and Unit Head, Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery (CTVS) at Max Smart Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi, notes that the trend is largely fuelled by modern lifestyle choices, poor diet, sedentary habits, obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption, and chronic stress. Having performed numerous complex cardiac procedures,
Dr. Singh emphasises that young individuals must recognise early warning signs and make proactive lifestyle changes to protect their heart health.
Traditionally, CAD was seen in older individuals, men above 45, and women after menopause. However, the disease is now appearing alarmingly early due to unhealthy routines and high-stress living. Common contributors include: Smoking and tobacco use, High-fat, low-nutrient diets, Sedentary work culture, Obesity, Excessive alcohol intake, Chronic stress and lack of sleep, Erratic work hours, long screen time, and poor dietary patterns have turned young professionals into high-risk candidates for heart disease.
Controllable risk factors include:
Diabetes, High blood pressure, High cholesterol, Smoking or tobacco use, Alcohol consumption, Obesity, Sedentary lifestyle, Stress
Non-modifiable risk factors include:
Age, Family history of heart disease, Genetic predisposition, Targeting controllable factors through diet, exercise, and regular health checks can significantly reduce the likelihood of CAD.
WARNING SIGNS TO WATCH FOR
Typical symptoms of CAD include:
Chest pain or tightness (angina), Pain radiating to the neck, jaw, or left arm, Shortness of breath, Fatigue or dizziness.
Dr. Singh stresses that even mild or intermittent chest discomfort should not be ignored, especially in those with risk factors like obesity, diabetes, or hypertension.
Coronary Artery Disease is no longer an “old-age” disorder. It is silently claiming younger lives, often due to preventable habits. As Dr. Singh emphasizes, “A healthy lifestyle is your first and most powerful defense against heart disease.” Early detection, timely medical intervention, and consistent self-care can keep the heart strong for decades to come.
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