Why Is Heart Attack Becoming Common?

Dr Musa Peter Omale, Consultant Cardiologist.

The reasons for the rising prevalence of heart attacks are multifactorial and can include:

1. Sedentary Lifestyle: Modern lifestyles often involve a lack of physical activity due to desk jobs, increased use of technology, and decreased physical exertion. A sedentary lifestyle can contribute to obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes, which are risk factors for heart attacks.

2. Poor Diet: The consumption of unhealthy foods high in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, and sodium can lead to the development of atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of plaque in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart attacks.

3. Obesity: The global obesity epidemic is a major contributor to the increased incidence of heart attacks. Excess body weight puts additional strain on the heart and can lead to various cardiovascular complications.

4. Smoking: Tobacco smoking is a significant risk factor for heart attacks. Smoking damages blood vessels, reduces oxygen supply to the heart, and contributes to the development of atherosclerosis.

5. Stress: Chronic stress can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as overeating, smoking, or excessive alcohol consumption, all of which can negatively impact heart health.

6. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Uncontrolled high blood pressure puts stress on the heart and blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart attacks.

7. Diabetes: People with diabetes have a higher risk of heart attacks due to the adverse effects of high blood sugar levels on blood vessels and the heart.

8. Lack of Physical Activity: Regular exercise is essential for cardiovascular health. A lack of physical activity can contribute to obesity, hypertension, and other risk factors for heart attacks.

9. Aging Population: As the global population ages, the incidence of heart attacks tends to increase. Aging is associated with various changes in the cardiovascular system that can contribute to heart-related issues.

10. Genetics and Family History: A family history of heart disease can increase an individual’s risk of experiencing a heart attack.

11. Access to Healthcare: Inadequate access to healthcare and preventive measures can delay the diagnosis and management of risk factors for heart attacks.

These factors interact in complex ways and may differ in their contribution to heart attacks across different populations and regions. Preventive measures, such as adopting a healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding tobacco use, can help reduce the risk of heart attacks. Early detection and management of risk factors through regular check-ups with healthcare professionals are also crucial in mitigating the impact of heart disease.