MULTAN: Adopting a balanced lifestyle and implementing simple, consistent changes to daily habits can prevent nearly 80 percent of heart complications in young people, stated Dr. Kashif Hashmi, a Professor of Cardiology.
He emphasized that unhealthy living has become the primary driver of heart attacks among the youth, with poor dietary choices and physical inactivity being the central issues.
Dr. Hashmi explained that the current generation is deeply immersed in mobile phones and digital devices, a habit that not only reduces physical activity but also elevates stress. “Modern lifestyles have alienated young people from fruits and vegetables, which are fundamental for a healthy heart,” he observed.
He identified the excessive consumption of oily and fried foods from restaurants and fast-food outlets as a major detriment to the cardiovascular health of young individuals. “Young people must consume fresh fruits, vegetables, and balanced meals. Their diet should be neither excessively fatty nor inadequate, as both over-eating and under-eating can lead to disease,” he advised.
Dr. Hashmi stressed that maintaining a balanced diet and ensuring food quality are crucial for heart health. He added that regular health check-ups, including monitoring blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels, are essential for detecting early warning signs. “Neglecting these basic indicators can cause silent damage to the heart,” he cautioned.
He pointed out that obesity, particularly the accumulation of abdominal fat, significantly raises the risk of heart disease. “One must not allow their waistline to expand. Controlling belly fat is critical for preventing future heart problems,” he said.
Dr. Hashmi highlighted that if young people adhere to these practical guidelines, they could reduce their risk of heart disease by up to 80 percent. He emphasized that preventive care is far more effective and affordable than seeking treatment after complications develop.
He further recommended incorporating regular physical exercise, such as 30 minutes of daily brisk walking or light workouts, to improve blood circulation, manage stress, and maintain a healthy weight. “Exercise should become a habit, not a seasonal effort,” he remarked.
Concluding his remarks, Dr. Kashif Hashmi stated that awareness about heart health must begin early. “Young people need to take responsibility for their bodies. Heart disease is no longer a problem of old age; it is striking earlier due to poor lifestyle choices. A disciplined lifestyle can safeguard not only the heart but overall well-being,” he said.
By following these simple yet impactful measures, young individuals can lead healthier lives and help reduce the societal burden of cardiovascular diseases.
