Pakistan is witnessing a disturbing rise in heart attacks among young adults, with nearly 50% of patients under 49 and 15% below 40, according to the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD). Cardiologists attribute this trend to rampant diabetes, hypertension, obesity, smoking, and poor lifestyle choices. Dr. Abdul Hakeem, Director of NICVD’s Cath Lab, revealed that Pakistan has the world’s highest rate of young heart attack patients, with many unaware of their risk due to cultural norms masking weight gain. He emphasized the need for cardiac screenings post-30, as symptoms like chest heaviness—often mistaken for acidity—can delay life-saving treatment.
The NICVD also highlighted the dangers of anterior heart attacks, which can damage 60% of the heart muscle and trigger clots within weeks, increasing stroke risk. Dr. Tahir Saghir, NICVD’s Executive Director, shared advancements in research, including trials on drug-coated balloons to reduce artery blockages without stents. International funding supports these efforts, aiming to tailor solutions for Pakistan’s unique healthcare challenges.
In a significant development, NICVD and Pharmevo conducted Pakistan’s largest clinical trial (RIVAWAR) on acute left ventricular thrombus (LVT), a deadly post-heart attack complication. The study compared rivaroxaban, a modern blood thinner, with warfarin, the traditional treatment. Results showed rivaroxaban to be equally effective, with faster clot resolution, offering a safer alternative for local patients. Early LVT diagnosis and treatment could prevent thousands of strokes annually.
Experts like Dr. Nadeem Rizvi and Dr. Tariq Furman stressed the importance of localized research, as genetic and socioeconomic factors make Western guidelines less effective in Pakistan. With heart disease now a national emergency, the NICVD’s findings underscore the urgent need for public awareness, early detection, and lifestyle reforms to curb this growing health crisis.