Heart health often declines at this age

Time for a Heart-to-Heart About Cardiovascular Health

It may be time to have a serious chat about heart health.

Research indicates that many people’s cardiovascular wellness starts to decline before they even hit voting age. However, young Americans often don’t seem to recognize the warning signs.

This situation means countless individuals are missing vital chances to take measures against heart disease, which is the leading cause of death in the U.S.

Cardiovascular issues are becoming more common among those under 40, having more than doubled since 2010. Yet, the onset of these problems frequently begins much earlier. By the time they reach 17, many young people’s heart health scores—based on factors like diet, exercise, blood pressure, and weight—are already slipping.

“I frequently see young adults in their early 20s who are already grappling with risk factors for significant cardiovascular conditions, such as high blood pressure and elevated blood sugar. For some, their body mass index falls into the obese category,” points out Dr. Jewel Scott, a primary care nurse practitioner.

Across the nation, one in five children and adolescents or roughly 14.7 million young people are dealing with obesity. These extra pounds put additional pressure on the cardiovascular system, potentially narrowing arteries and disrupting heart rhythm.

Research suggests that carrying excess weight from an early age may be even more harmful to heart health than being obese later in life.

The statistics for other critical risk factors are also worrisome. “Most children start off healthy, but unfortunately, many of the benefits of good heart health deteriorate in early childhood. Currently, fewer than 5 percent of kids in the U.S. enjoy ideal cardiovascular health,” notes Dr. David Jacobs, a public health professor at the University of Minnesota.

Moreover, many young Americans partake in activities that heighten their likelihood of developing heart disease. About one in four U.S. high school students do not engage in the recommended daily amounts of exercise. Missing out on physical activity, which strengthens the heart, enhances blood flow, and decreases inflammation, is concerning.

Use of nicotine products, including cigarettes and vapes, has also surged from 21% among 18 to 23-year-olds in 2002 to 43% in 2018.

The silver lining? Research indicates that many of these risk factors can be modified. Making improvements can significantly boost the chances of avoiding heart disease.

The American Heart Association advocates for quitting smoking or vaping, reducing alcohol intake, and maintaining a nutritious diet. Adults are encouraged to aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week and get between seven to nine hours of sleep nightly.

For individuals with diabetes, regular health checkups are crucial to manage blood sugar levels, and those over 20 should get cholesterol tests every four to six years.

“One positive lifestyle change can often lead to multiple benefits,” Dr. Min-Sam Lee, a cardiologist at Kaiser Permanente, explains. For example, engaging in regular exercise can lessen cravings for cigarettes, enhance sleep quality, and improve mental wellness, all vital for heart health.