Growing Heart Health Risks Among Young People in Pakistan

Growing Heart Health Risks Among Young People in Pakistan

Heart diseases are becoming an increasing health concern in Pakistan. What is more worrying is that heart-related problems are now being seen more often among younger people. Health experts believe that unhealthy eating habits, lack of physical activity, smoking, and other unhealthy lifestyle choices are important factors behind this growing problem.

A recent medical camp was organised by Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) in collaboration with the Karachi Press Club (KPC). The camp provided health screening and medical advice to journalists and members of the press club. Different tests, including ECGs and echocardiograms, were also conducted during the camp.

Dr. Javaid A. Khan, Professor of Pulmonology at Aga Khan University Hospital, highlighted the importance of making healthy lifestyle choices. He advised people to take part in regular physical activity, eat a balanced diet, and avoid smoking and other forms of tobacco. He also encouraged parents to reduce the consumption of fast food among children and promote healthier foods such as vegetables.

Another health expert, Dr. Yawer Saeed, Assistant Professor of Cardiology at Aga Khan University, explained that cardiovascular diseases are becoming a serious problem in Pakistan and other parts of Asia. He also pointed out that heart attacks have increasingly been observed among younger people over the past decade. According to him, controlling food intake and following a balanced and nutritious diet can help reduce the risk of heart disease.

The growing use of fast food is particularly concerning because many young people regularly consume foods that are high in unhealthy fats, salt, and calories. Combined with a lack of exercise, these habits can contribute to poor heart health. Smoking and tobacco use can further increase health risks.

Prevention is therefore very important. People can protect their health by exercising regularly, eating more nutritious foods, avoiding excessive fast food, maintaining a healthy weight, and staying away from tobacco. Regular medical check-ups can also help identify health problems at an early stage.

Young adults spend significant amounts of time at universities and workplaces. These environments can provide opportunities to promote healthier lifestyles. Universities can encourage sports, walking and other physical activities. Workplaces can support employees by promoting movement during long working hours and providing access to health awareness programmes.

Even small changes to daily routines can encourage healthier behaviour.

In conclusion, the rising number of heart-related problems among younger people shows that healthy lifestyle choices should begin early in life. Families, schools, healthcare professionals, and communities can all play a role in encouraging healthier habits. Small changes in daily life can help reduce the risk of serious diseases and lead to a healthier future.

Researcher/Expert Reference

Dr. Javaid A. Khan Professor of Pulmonology Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH), Karachi, Pakistan

Dr. Yawer Saeed Assistant Professor of Cardiology Aga Khan University / Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan

References

Vayani, R. (2026, October 5). KPC-AKUH medical camp highlights growing heart health risks. BizToday. BizToday article

Overeating, fast food and smoking harm heart health, say experts. (2026, October 4). Dawn. Dawn report

Aga Khan University Hospital. Heart health and medical care information. Aga Khan University Hospital