The results are striking: over 99% of those who later developed cardiovascular diseases already had at least one “suboptimal” risk factor, and more than 93% had two or more. The most common culprit was high blood pressure (hypertension), which was recorded in more than nine out of ten participants with subsequent complications, according to the Daily Mail.
Additionally, other common risks were tracked: elevated blood glucose or already diagnosed type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and current or former tobacco use. Even among young women, traditionally considered a “lower risk group,” over 95% had at least one concerning indicator long before any event occurred.
The senior author of the study, cardiology professor Philip Greenland, emphasizes that the key task is to more rigorously control modifiable risk factors rather than spreading efforts thin on factors that are difficult to treat and not causative.
Why Heart Attacks Are Happening at a Younger Age
According to the NHS – the National Health Service of the United Kingdom, while most heart events still occur in older age, hospitalizations for heart attacks among people aged 30 to 40 are on the rise. Doctors attribute this trend to obesity, hypertension, , as well as poor-quality diets, sedentary lifestyles, and chronic stress.
In the U.S., the picture is similar: professional organizations estimate that heart attacks among adults under 40 are increasing by about 2% each year, while the number of strokes in the 18 to 44 age group has risen by approximately 15% over the past decade, despite declines in older age groups. The reasons are the same—uncontrolled classic risk factors.
Medical professionals warn that younger patients are often underestimated, viewing heart disease as a “retirement age problem.” As a result, valuable time for early intervention is lost.
How to Detect Threats Early
Experts emphasize that regular screening is the simplest way to avoid missing potential dangers. Routine measurements of blood pressure and cholesterol, as well as assessments of glucose levels and status, help identify deviations in those who feel perfectly healthy.
The problem is twofold: many people are unaware of their condition, while others do not keep their indicators under control. Particularly insidious is —often referred to as the “silent killer” because symptoms may not appear for years until heart and vascular damage occurs.
Controlling risk factors is possible: researchers emphasize lifestyle changes (diet, physical activity, quitting smoking) and medication therapy when necessary.
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