Muscat: In the recent spate of reports that have made headlines, locally and globally, one upsetting fact is the occurrence of heart attacks in seemingly healthy individuals; young adults who have made fitness their daily anthem. From sudden celebrity deaths – while on stage performing or working out at the gym – to the recent local report of a 38-year old Indian passenger dying mid-air, grim stories of life snuffed without a cue has created a sense of uneasiness among everyone.

Heart disease can strike any time – and that is a glaring truth – especially with spiraling of stress factors at work or at home, and the prevalence of lifestyle diseases like diabetes and hypertension. But what is disconcerting is that most of the cases are of people who followed regular fitness regime. 

What then could be the underlying cause? 

While medical experts mull over the impact of the pandemic on the rising number of cases in recent times (with sudden heart attacks reported in people less than 45 years of age), laypeople continue to ponder over the looming question: how to avert such a situation in the absence of a trigger? Would a fitness regime help? Should one make changes in the diet…?

The answer, as medical experts’ advice, is to undergo regular heart screening; more so, if there is a family history of heart disease or other risk factors. Doctors believe that heart blockages among the young could be brought on by genetics or bad cholesterol, which could lead to the formation of blood clots during an extreme workout, causing an attack. 

This calls for a shift in the mindset. It urges one to understand the importance of screening tests even when there are no risk factors, as these tests can detect issues that might increase risk of cardiac diseases in the future, prompting you to take corrective lifestyle measures.

Let this World Heart Day, then, be a wakeup call for everyone. Let it be a caveat for all of us to combine our workouts with right diet, along with a lifestyle that dictates proper sleep patterns.

For, factors such as lack of adequate exercise, poor diet choices (low fiber and high carbohydrates including processed foods and sweets), smoking, use of tobacco, late night sleep or inadequate sleep, as well as genetic predisposition, all play a role, leading to undiagnosed diabetes and hypertension that increase heart disease risk without us even realizing it; without us even noticing any symptoms.

And global statistics prove it conclusively. 

According to the World Heart Organisation, cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death globally, taking an estimated 17.9 million lives each year. 

So, on this World Heart Day, under the theme ‘Use Heart, Know Heart’, the World Heart Federation (WHF) is calling on each one of us to take care of our hearts; to focus on the essential step of knowing our hearts first. Because, as the WHF states, ‘we love and protect only what we know’.

“In a world where knowledge about heart health is limited and policies are insufficient or lacking, we aim to shatter barriers and empower individuals to take control of their well-being. Because, when we know more, we can take better care,” it reminds us.

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HL

‘Consult healthcare professional before starting any intense exercise program’

Intro 

“It’s crucial for individuals of all ages, including young people, to consult with a healthcare professional before starting an intense exercise program, especially if they have underlying health concerns or a family history of heart disease,” advises Dr. Matlooba Al Zadjali of HVC Oman.

In an exclusive interview with TAS Weekly, Dr. Matlooba Zadjali, Sr. Consultant Public Health Cardiovascular Disease (heart failure specialist) and Managing Director of Heart Vascular Center (HVC Oman), urged everyone to seek professional consultation, especially if they have underlying health concerns or a family history of heart disease.

Following are her replies to questions related to heart and health.

While healthy lifestyle with regular workouts and right food are said to keep ones heart healthy, why are gym goers suffering from heart attack?

While regular exercise and a healthy lifestyle are generally associated with a reduced risk of heart disease, it’s important to understand that there can still be risks associated with intense physical activity, especially for young people. 

Here are some reasons why some individuals may experience heart issues, including heart attacks, during exercise:

• Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance 
• Inadequate warm up
• Family history 
• Overexertion 

It’s crucial for individuals of all ages, including young people, to consult with a healthcare professional before starting an intense exercise program, especially if they have underlying health concerns or a family history of heart disease. 

Regular medical check-ups and gradual progression in exercise intensity can help mitigate the risks associated with physical activity. Additionally, gyms and fitness facilities should have staff trained in basic cardiac life support and access to automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to respond to emergencies.

Why are so many young people developing heart diseases?

Cardiovascular disease remains a prevalent health issue due to various factors:

Lifestyle Choices: Unhealthy diets, lack of physical activity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption contribute to the development of cardiovascular risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and obesity.

Aging Population: As the global population ages, the risk of cardiovascular disease increases. Aging is a natural risk factor for conditions like atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and hypertension.

Genetics: Family history can play a role in predisposing individuals to cardiovascular disease. Genetic factors can increase susceptibility to conditions like heart disease.

Urbanization: Urban areas often have environments that promote sedentary lifestyles, fast food consumption, and high stress levels, all of which contribute to cardiovascular risk.

Lack of Awareness: Many people are unaware of their cardiovascular risk factors or underestimate their importance. Regular check-ups and health education are essential for prevention.

Health Inequities: Socioeconomic factors, access to healthcare, and disparities in healthcare quality can affect the prevalence of cardiovascular disease, leading to higher rates in disadvantaged populations.

It is important to note that advances in medical technology and treatments have allowed more people with cardiovascular disease to live longer, which can contribute to higher overall prevalence. However, efforts to reduce the incidence of cardiovascular diseases involve public health campaigns, lifestyle changes, early detection, and improved access to healthcare.

How prone are women to get hypertension? Which heart disease is most common among women?

Women can develop hypertension (high blood pressure) at any age, but there are certain factors that may make them more prone to it. These factors can include genetics, family history, age, obesity, lack of physical activity, and certain medical conditions. Hypertension can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health issues in both men and women.

One of the most common heart diseases among women is coronary artery disease (CAD). CAD occurs when the blood vessels that supply the heart with oxygen and nutrients become narrowed or blocked by a buildup of plaque. It can lead to chest pain (angina) or heart attacks. While CAD affects both genders, it can present differently in women, sometimes with subtler symptoms that may be mistaken for other conditions. Other heart conditions, such as heart failure and arrhythmias, can also affect women.

It’s important for women to be aware of their heart health, especially if they have risk factors like hypertension, and to seek regular medical check-ups and screenings to detect and manage these conditions early. Lifestyle changes like maintaining a healthy diet, staying physically active, managing stress, and not smoking can help reduce the risk of hypertension and heart disease in both men and women.

What are some fitness guidelines to boost heart health? 

Improving heart health through a workout and fitness regime is crucial. Here are some strategies and advices to help you get started:

Consult a Healthcare Professional: Before beginning any new exercise program, especially if you have underlying health conditions, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure your fitness plan is safe and appropriate for your individual needs.

Cardiovascular Exercise: Engage in regular aerobic exercises like brisk walking, jogging, cycling, swimming, or dancing. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week.

Strength Training: Incorporate strength training exercises using weights, resistance bands, or bodyweight exercises like push-ups and squats. This helps improve overall muscle tone and can also benefit your heart health.

Interval Training: High-intensity interval training (HIIT) can be very effective for heart health. It involves short bursts of intense exercise followed by brief periods of rest or lower-intensity activity.

Flexibility and Stretching: Include flexibility exercises like yoga or static stretching to improve joint mobility and reduce the risk of injury.

Balanced Diet: Eat a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy. Minimize saturated and trans fats, sodium, and added sugars.

Hydration: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day, especially during and after exercise.

Manage Stress: Chronic stress can negatively impact heart health. Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or mindfulness.

Adequate Sleep: Ensure you get 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night, as poor sleep can contribute to heart problems.

Quit Smoking: If you smoke, quitting is one of the most significant steps you can take to improve heart health.

Limit Hard Drinks: If you consume hard drinks, do so in moderation. Excessive hard drink intake can harm your heart.

Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your heart health, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and other relevant metrics.

Stay Consistent: Consistency is key; stick to your fitness routine and make it a habit.

Remember, it’s essential to tailor your fitness plan to your individual fitness level and health status. Start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts as your fitness improves. Listen to your body, and if you experience any unusual symptoms, consult your healthcare provider.

Use Heart, Know Heart!