The latest research seems to suggest that heart health begins to slip and the risk of cardiovascular disease increase at a younger age than doctors once thought.
The latest research shows that most people’s cardiovascular health starts to decline before they’re even old enough to vote — yet few young Americans recognize the warning signs.
That means millions are missing a critical window to take action and protect themselves from heart disease, the leading cause of death in the US.
The condition is on the rise among adults under 40, with rates more than doubling since 2010.
But current research indicates that the problem often starts much earlier. By age 17, most people’s heart health scores, which consider lifestyle factors like diet and exercise, as well as clinical measures such as blood pressure and weight, have already begun to slip.
Across the country, one in five children and adolescents, or a staggering 14.7 million young people, are living with obesity. Those extra pounds put added strain on the cardiovascular system, can narrow coronary arteries and even affect heart rhythm.
Worse yet, studies suggest that carrying excess weight from a young age is even more harmful to heart health than becoming obese as an adult. Adding to the concern, many young Americans are engaging in behaviors that further increase their risk of being diagnosed with heart disease.
Only about one in four US high school students get the recommended hour of daily exercise, leaving many without the benefits of physical activity, such as a stronger heart, better blood flow and reduced inflammation.
Furthermore, use of cigarettes, vapes and other nicotine products has also gone up, increasing from 21% of 18- to 23-year-olds in 2002 to 43% in 2018.
However, the experts say the good news is that many of these biomarkers and behaviors can be changed, and research shows that making adjustments can significantly boost your chances of preventing heart disease.
The American Heart Association (AHA)recommends quitting smoking and vaping, cutting back on alcohol and sticking to a healthy diet packed with nutrient-rich foods.
Adults should aim for 150 minutes a week of moderate exercise, like brisk walking, and get seven to nine hours of sleep each night.
If you have diabetes, regular checkups are key to keeping blood sugar in check. For anyone over 20, cholesterol should be checked every four to six years.
According to the AHA, understanding your risk factors and working to correct them early is a critical first step down the path of better cardiovascular health.
