Discovering the Shocking Truth of Increasing Heart Attacks Among Youths
In recent research, Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) in Qatar is striking younger people in the age group of 35-45 with the incidence being highest in Asian expatriates. Many cardiologists in Qatar have reported that they have witnessed a higher number of heart attacks in young individuals over the past few years.Health experts attribute it to risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, smoking, hypertension, and high cholesterol levels in younger adults are the major causes of heart attacks among youths. Heart disease is estimated to cause approximately 18 million deaths annually. The studies indicate that people from Asian countries are likely to have a genetic predisposition to cardiovascular and coronary artery diseases. Studies reveal that more than half of residents in Qatar have been affected by heart disease during their life time.
What is even more terrific is that around 40% of adults in Qatar are at risk of Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease (ASCVD). Yet, most are unaware of the danger until they experience severe conditions like a heart attack or stroke. ASCVD is a condition where plaque buildup occurs in the arteries, leading to atherosclerosis, a process in which fatty deposits, cholesterol, blood cells, and other substances accumulate inside the artery walls, forming plaques.
Many risk factors such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, obesity, physical inactivity, and eating saturated fats drive its prevalence among young people worldwide. Sadly, many of these risk factors can be prevented or controlled with lifestyle changes, early detection, and appropriate treatment. Hypertension is another factor that increases stress on the arterial walls. Studies have shown that people with diabetes often have abnormal blood sugar levels, which can damage blood vessels and accelerate the development of cardiac diseases. Also, smoking, lack of regular exercise, and unhealthy diets contribute to an increased risk of heart disease. Furthermore, a family history of heart disease is also a major factor that puts people at risk.
Most of the people spend their maximum time at their workspace. An individual may experience a sudden heart attack at the workplace.
Before that, let’s understand the reasons for heart attacks in the workplace.
● Stress
Working professionals often experience heart ailments due to increased levels of stress. Prolonged exposure to unmanaged stress poses risks to heart health, and a sudden peak in the stress level can lead to heart attack.
● Rotational working hours
People working in rotational shifts are at higher risk of increased stress and mood disorders which are not good for your heart health.
● Improper diet
Higher cholesterol levels, obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes are all results of a hectic lifestyle that can lead to the risk of heart attack.
● Depression
This is observed in employees who are not able to achieve their set goals or are not acknowledged for their work and may experience depression which can lead to other health-related complications.
Any symptoms of attack at the workplace such as pain or discomfort in the chest, pain towards the jaws, and shoulder, shortness of breath, nausea sweating, and lightheadedness are the physical manifestations during or before the occurrence of a heart attack. So, if you observe any such symptoms, you should seek immediate medical help from hospitals like the cardiology department of American Hospital Clinics.
How can you prevent heart attacks in the workplace? Or what are the pro-action methods that can be taken to prevent heart attacks? Let’s have a look at it.
The ideal way to avoid the possibility of heart disease in the workspace is an annual corporate health checkup. It is an important step that every organization must take to ensure that all their employees are healthy and stress-free. With a checkup, it is possible to timely diagnose, treat, and manage various health disorders appropriately. Organizations should initiate and plan employee wellness programs and give awareness to their employees about their health and how to handle emergencies in those critical conditions. Other preventive measures include:
1. Consuming Healthy Diet
Maintaining a well-rounded and nutritious diet stands as a cornerstone in safeguarding one's health. Research suggests that as much as 80% of instances of premature heart disease and stroke are avoidable through conscientious lifestyle choices and habits, including adhering to a balanced diet and engaging in regular physical activity.
A healthy diet consists of:
● Plenty of fruits and vegetables
● Lots of whole-grain foods
● Lean, & protein-rich foods
● Limit highly and ultra-processed foods
● Plenty of water
2. Begin with an active lifestyle with physical workouts
It is recommended that every adult should aim to achieve a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity each week, organized into sessions lasting at least 10 minutes or longer.
3. Reduce your stress levels
By implementing stress-reduction strategies such as mindfulness sessions, flexible work arrangements, and encouraging breaks, employers can create a healthier and more conducive environment ultimately reducing the risk of heart attacks and promoting a happier, more productive workforce.
