ISLAMABAD – In a disturbing shift, nearly half of all heart attacks in Pakistan are now striking people younger than 50, with cardiologists blaming stressful lifestyles, poor diets, and lack of sleep.
According to National Institute for Heart figures, 47% of cases occur between the ages of 30 and 50, a marked increase compared to past decades.
Dr. Abdul Hakeem, a top cardiologist, said young adults are facing heart attacks often without warning signs, and that the causes are largely preventable:
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Irregular sleep and high caffeine consumption
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Chronic stress and screen overuse
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Sedentary routines with little physical activity
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Unhealthy diets high in processed foods
He urged Pakistanis over 30 to schedule regular heart screenings, engage in daily exercise, and manage stress levels.
Dr. Jahangir Ali Shah, public health advocate, warned that the trend could overwhelm the healthcare system unless addressed through workplace wellness programs, school-based awareness drives, and community-level interventions.
Both experts stressed that heart disease is no longer just an elderly concern, and that public awareness, preventive care, and policy action are essential to stopping the surge.