Atherosclerosis rising among younger adults in Bengaluru, doctors warn

Bengaluru: Doctors in the city are noticing a rise in cases of atherosclerosis, or plaque in arteries, where fats, cholesterol, calcium and inflammatory cells build along artery walls, reducing blood flow and the supply of fresh blood to organs.

This condition is now especially observed among younger people.

As the condition progresses, arteries lose elasticity and may become completely blocked, causing heart attacks. The condition, seen largely in men, often occurs without symptoms and is noted only after heart attacks, some doctors said.

Dr Rajesh S, Vascular and Endovascular Surgeon, said, “Atherosclerosis is garnering attention more than ever before, as it is the primary cause of nearly all types of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), and makes CVDs the leading cause of death globally, including in India. A condition once considered to affect senior citizens is now seen in people in their 30s, 40s, or even younger.”

Doctors said that while awareness about the disease has increased, misdiagnosis as a gastrointestinal issue is still common.

Dr Mukundan Seshadri, Senior Consultant, Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery, said, “There are instances of delayed diagnosis as we do not expect it in the younger crowd, and many patients would have already visited a gastroenterologist. When nothing is found in the report, they are often referred to cardiologists.”

Dr Anusha A Rao, Consultant, Cardiology, said, “Diabetes is a pandemic in India and a major risk factor for macrovascular complications and heart attacks. Add to this the widespread unhealthy lifestyle, especially after Covid."

Atherosclerosis is not reversible and doctors can only try to arrest its progression. “Permanent damage occurs when artery deposits become severe and the artery narrows, leading to heart attacks,” said Chirag D, Consultant, Interventional Cardiology.

Symptoms

- Chest pain during physical activities.
- Shortness of breath.
- Intolerance to exercise and physical activities.
- Momentary dizziness, blurry vision, and transient attacks with temporary loss of strength.