Doctor warns to watch for signs of 'silent killer' hitting younger people
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An expert has warned that heart disease is no longer confined to older generations and people need to be aware of the dangerous symptom increasingly affecting adults in their 30s. Dr Sonya Babu-Narayan, Associate Medical Director at the British Heart Foundation and Consultant Cardiologist, is sounding the alarm on a subtle sign that often goes unnoticed until it's too late. In collaboration with health and wellness experts from Ski Famille,, she warns that this trend is a wake-up call for a generation juggling careers, families, and mounting stress.
Lifestyle shifts in recent decades have contributed to a growing prevalence of heart disease in younger demographics. The combination of sedentary jobs, poor diet, increased stress levels, and insufficient sleep are all culprits. A report from the British Heart Foundation reveals that 1 in 5 adults under 40 have undiagnosed hypertension (high blood pressure), a major precursor to heart disease. Furthermore, over 40% of adults in this age group admit to leading sedentary lives.
Failing to recognize and address these symptoms early can lead to dire consequences, including heart attacks, strokes, or chronic heart failure. "Many young adults believe they're invincible," says Dr. Babu-Narayan. "But without intervention, these silent issues can snowball into life-threatening emergencies.".
The societal cost is equally concerning. According to NHS England, early-onset heart disease has resulted in a surge of lost workdays and increased healthcare costs, with young families particularly affected. Ski Famille highlights the toll this takes on family life, emphasizing the importance of proactive health measures to ensure long-term well-being for loved ones.
