SHAH ALAM, Sept 17 — Unhealthy lifestyles, including excessive caffeine intake, fast food consumption and lack of exercise, are among factors behind rising cases of heart attacks among young Malaysians.
KPJ Klang Specialist Hospital health service screening head Dr Shobana Supramaniam said heart attacks have increased by 30 per cent over the past decade, with 5 to 10 per cent involving youth.
She added that shifting lifestyle patterns have led to people as young as 20 suffering heart attacks.
“Malaysia recorded its youngest heart attack case last year, involving an 18-year-old patient. Previously, the youngest was 25 in 2022.
“In the past, hypertension and diabetes were only seen among people in their 50s. Today, patients in their early 30s are living with both conditions. I have seen a 32-year-old who looked perfectly healthy on the outside, yet had high blood sugar and blood pressure readings,” she said recently on Media Selangor’s Bicara Semasa programme.
Dr Shobana said many young people grew up eating fast food, which then became a lifelong habit, leading to obesity.
“Two out of three obesity cases develop hypertension and diabetes. This comes down to lifestyle choices.
“Even excessive caffeine plays a role. Coffee has become a trend. While two cups a day is acceptable, I have patients who drink up to eight. Caffeine, fast food and artificial food colouring are contributing to heart attacks,” she explained.
She advised people to incorporate at least 30 minutes of light exercise daily, manage stress positively, ensure adequate sleep, drink plain water, reduce caffeine and even use music for relaxation.
“Don’t make excuses. You can exercise at 5am, 6am, or even late at night with a simple walk. Out of 24 hours, dedicate at least 30 minutes to keep active,” she said.
Dr Shobana also encouraged the use of smart watches as a health monitoring tool.
“A smart watch can detect stress levels, track daily steps and send reminders if you have been sitting too long. It motivates people to move more,” she said.
She however cautioned that exercise must be done safely, with the maximum heart rate limit being 220 minus one’s age.
“For example, if you are 20 years old, your maximum heart rate is 200 beats per minute. At 60 years old, the safe limit is 160. Never exceed these levels,” Dr Shobana said.
