Heart disease is no longer confined to middle age. Doctors in Mumbai are witnessing a sharp rise in cardiac cases among younger adults, a new report reveals.
The report is a part of insights from the month-long Heart Health Insights Survey conducted by Wockhardt Hospitals in Mumbai Central.
It coincides with World Heart Day, observed every year on September 29 to raise awareness about the need to take care of your heart along with timely checkups. This year, the theme is `Don`t Miss A Beat`.
The six key findings from the survey include some important observations about people of all ages dealing with heart health. They not only bust myths but also highlight why it is important to take our heart serious.
– 62 per cent of doctors say heart cases in patients under 40 have increased significantly over the last five years.
– Middle-aged adults (41–60) remain the most affected (80 per cent), but cases among young adults (less than 40 years old) are no longer rare.
– 67 per cent of doctors report men are at higher risk, though women are increasingly affected.
– Only 35 per cent of patients go for preventive heart check-ups; 65 per cent seek help only after symptoms appear.
– Over 70 per cent of patients have only partial knowledge of their BP, cholesterol, and sugar levels.
– Golden hour delays: Only 40 per cent of cardiac patients reach hospitals in time during emergencies.
“Ten years ago, heart attacks in people in their 30s were rare. Today, we are seeing professionals in their late 20s and 30s presenting with heart attacks linked to stress, poor lifestyle habits, and neglect of health. This is a wake-up call for urban India,” said Dr. Parin Sangoi, interventional cardiologist at the hospital.
“Preventive care is almost absent in our culture. Even educated patients underestimate cardiac risk. By the time they come to us, they often miss the ‘golden hour’, reducing chances of survival and recovery. Prevention and awareness must be the new priority,” added Dr Gulshan Rohra, Chief Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery, at the hospital adds.
The survey highlights the urgent need for awareness, early intervention, and lifestyle changes. Preventive cardiac care and timely medical attention are critical to reducing mortality and saving lives in urban India.
