Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of death worldwide. It is commonly associated with aged people, but recent studies show a significant increase in CVD among young adults, specifically those between the ages of 18 to 35.

This is concerning as traditionally CVD is associated with older ages, which means that young adults may not be aware of their risk factors and could be overlooking early warning signs. This article explores the reasons why young adults are vulnerable to CVD and what steps can be taken to reduce their risk.

Lifestyle Factors

Young adults are more likely to engage in behavioral patterns that increase their risk of developing CVD. These factors include:.

Sedentary lifestyle
Poor diet
Smoking
Excessive alcohol consumption
Stress

Young adults are prone to lead a sedentary lifestyle. Lack of exercise and physical activities contribute to the accumulation of body fat and high cholesterol levels. This, in turn, increases the risk of developing CVD.

Poor dietary habits such as consuming fast food and processed snacks rich in salt and sugar also contribute to increased risk. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are additional lifestyle risk factors that contribute to developing CVD. Additionally, stress in young adults can contribute to behavioral patterns that increase the risk of developing CVD.

This is because during periods of stress, people are more likely to engage in unhealthy lifestyle habits.

Obesity

Obesity is a significant risk factor for CVD. Young adults who are obese or overweight have a higher likelihood of developing a range of heart diseases, including hypertension, stroke, and heart failure.

Obesity is a growing problem among young adults, which increases their risk of developing severe health problems early in life. The best way to reduce the risk of CVD related to obesity is to maintain a healthy weight by eating a balanced diet and engaging in regular physical activity.

High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common risk factor for CVD. Young adults are not exempt from this disease, and recent studies have found that nearly 10% of adults between the ages of 18 and 39 have hypertension.

Hypertension is problematic as it increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other CVD-related complications. Regular blood pressure checks are crucial in monitoring and subsequently managing hypertension.

Additionally, young adults should make lifestyle changes to lower their blood pressure levels, such as maintaining a healthy weight, adopting a healthy diet, and exercising regularly.

High Cholesterol Levels

High cholesterol levels contribute to the blockage of blood vessels and increased risk of heart diseases such as myocardial infarction.

Young adults are vulnerable to high cholesterol levels, particularly those with a family history of CVD, obesity, high sugar intake, and a sedentary lifestyle. Screening for high cholesterol levels should begin early to manage the disease in its early stages.

A healthy diet and lifestyle changes, such as engaging in exercises and taking cholesterol-lowering medications, can help manage high cholesterol levels.

Diabetes

Diabetes significantly increases the rate of developing CVD. Young adults who are overweight and those with a family history of diabetes are at risk.

Diabetes and high blood sugar levels increase inflammation in the arterial walls, making young adults prone to developing CVD. Adopting healthy lifestyle changes and managing blood sugar levels through medication can help prevent the disease’s onset.

Prevention Strategies

Prevention strategies for young adults vulnerable to CVD include:.

Eating a healthy diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins
Engaging in regular physical activity and avoiding sedentary activities
Quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption
Managing blood pressure levels through medication, diet, and lifestyle changes
Maintaining healthy weight
Regular screening for CVD risk factors

Conclusion

Young adults are vulnerable to CVD due to several risk factors, including lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and smoking.

Additionally, conditions such as obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and diabetes increase the risk of developing CVD. Adopting prevention strategies such as healthy diets, exercise, and managing blood pressure levels can help reduce the disease’s risk. Additionally, regular screening for risk factors is crucial in detecting and managing the onset of CVD.