Prevent Heart Problems Early: UAE Youth at Risk
<p><strong>Dubai, UAE:</strong> Cardiovascular problems are no longer confined to older adults. Leading doctors in the UAE are warning that heart risks—including <strong>hypertension, heart palpitations, and heart attacks</strong>—are rising among younger people due to stress, poor diet, and sedentary lifestyles.</p><p>Globally, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of death, responsible for <strong>around 20.5 million deaths annually</strong>, or roughly one-third of all deaths worldwide, according to <strong>Dr Niraj Gupta</strong>, Specialist Interventional Cardiologist at <strong>NMC Royal Hospital, DIP, Dubai</strong>. Among these conditions, <strong>ischemic heart disease</strong>, commonly known as heart attacks, is particularly lethal.</p><h4>Key Risk Factors</h4><p>Doctors say the most significant risk factors include:</p><p><strong>High blood pressure (hypertension)</strong></p><p><strong>Smoking</strong></p><p><strong>Diabetes</strong></p><p><strong>High cholesterol</strong></p><p><strong>Family history of cardiovascular disease</strong></p><p>In the UAE, hypertension is increasingly common, affecting <strong>approximately 31% of adults</strong>, with a higher prevalence among expatriate males from South Asia, notes <strong>Dr Mehmet Urumdas</strong>, Specialist Cardiologist at NMC Royal Hospital.</p><p>Hypertension is dangerous because it forces the heart to work harder, thickening the heart muscle over time. This can lead to <strong>heart failure, coronary artery disease, heart attacks, and strokes</strong>. Often called a “silent killer,” high blood pressure frequently goes unnoticed until serious complications occur.</p><p>“<strong>Regular blood pressure screenings are essential, especially for people over 30 or those with risk factors like obesity, smoking, or a sedentary lifestyle</strong>,” says Dr Urumdas. Early detection through routine check-ups can prevent life-threatening events.</p><h4>Lifestyle Changes Can Make a Difference</h4><p>The good news: many heart risks are <strong>preventable</strong> through simple, daily lifestyle adjustments. Doctors recommend:</p><p>Maintaining a <strong>healthy weight</strong></p><p>Engaging in <strong>30 minutes of moderate exercise</strong> most days</p><p>Eating a <strong>balanced diet</strong> rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins</p><p>Limiting <strong>salt and saturated fats</strong></p><p><strong>Quitting smoking</strong></p><p>Moderating <strong>alcohol consumption</strong></p><p><strong>Managing stress</strong>, particularly among younger adults</p><p>Dr Gupta notes that stress is a rising contributor to heart disease in the UAE. Combined with obesity, hypertension, and high cholesterol, stress significantly increases cardiovascular risk in young adults.</p><h4>Understanding Heart Palpitations</h4><p>An increasing number of patients are reporting <strong>heart palpitations</strong>, which feel like fluttering or racing in the chest. While often harmless, palpitations can signal <strong>serious underlying conditions</strong>, especially if they occur frequently or are accompanied by dizziness, chest pain, or fainting.</p><p>High-risk palpitations may result from:</p><p><strong>Arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms)</strong></p><p><strong>Structural heart disease</strong></p><p><strong>Electrolyte imbalances</strong></p><p><strong>Thyroid disorders</strong></p><p>Certain <strong>medications</strong></p><p>Individuals with anxiety, high stress, or excessive caffeine consumption are particularly prone. <strong>Regular check-ups</strong> and prompt medical attention are crucial to prevent serious complications like stroke or heart failure. Diagnostic tools include <strong>ECG, Holter monitoring, echocardiogram, and blood tests</strong>.</p><h4>Advances in Treatment</h4><p>If lifestyle changes alone are insufficient, modern medicine offers <strong>effective interventions</strong>. Minimally invasive procedures like <strong>angioplasty and stent placement</strong> can restore blood flow to the heart, reducing damage after a heart attack. <strong>Blood thinners and clot-busting drugs</strong> have also become more targeted and effective.</p><p>Cardiac rehabilitation programs now combine exercise, education, and lifestyle changes, offering a comprehensive approach to recovery.</p><h4>Take Charge of Your Heart Health</h4><p>Experts emphasize that prevention and early intervention are the best defenses. Simple lifestyle changes, awareness of symptoms, and timely medical attention can dramatically reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular events.</p><p>“<strong>The faster a heart attack is treated, the less damage occurs to the heart muscle</strong>,” Dr Gupta reminds, reinforcing the importance of vigilance and proactive care.</p><p>For UAE residents, especially younger adults, the message is clear: <strong>don’t wait for warning signs to act. Start healthy habits today, monitor your heart health, and seek help when necessary.</strong></p>