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Young Hearts Under Threat: 50% Angioplasty Patients Under 40
14 Feb
Summary
- Half of India's heart attack patients undergoing angioplasty are under 40.
- Cardiovascular disease deaths have significantly increased since 2004.
- Angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure to restore blood flow.
Data from Indian hospitals between 2020 and 2023 indicates a significant shift, with 50% of angioplasty patients now under 40 years old. This highlights a growing heart health concern among younger demographics. Cardiovascular disease mortality has also climbed, with the share of deaths among men rising from 21.5% in 2004-06 to 32% in 2019-21, and for women from 17.8% to 27.7% in the same period.
Angioplasty is a vital, minimally invasive procedure to address atherosclerosis, a condition where plaque buildup narrows arteries, impeding blood flow. This can lead to serious complications like heart attacks. The procedure typically involves inserting a catheter with a deflated balloon into a blocked artery. Guided by X-ray, the balloon is inflated to push plaque against the artery walls, widening the passage.
Often, a stent, a small wire mesh tube, is then placed to keep the artery open. Medicating stents may be used to prevent blood clots. Doctors recommend angioplasty to prevent heart attacks and strokes, especially in cases of carotid artery disease or compromised kidney blood flow. Lifestyle changes, including diet, exercise, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol, are crucial post-procedure, alongside medication and cardiac rehabilitation.
