A cardiologist in the UAE has warned of a significant number of heart problems among younger people, particularly those aged 30 to 50, stressing the importance of screening and lifestyle changes.

Dr Naveed Ahmed, Head of Cardiology Services at Aster Hospitals and Clinics in the UAE, said an analysis of data from more than 3,500 patients at the cardiac catheterisation laboratory at Aster Hospital Mankhool in Dubai found that about half were aged between 31 and 50. Around 30 per cent were aged 51 to 60. The facility has performed more than 10,000 cardiac surgeries and procedures since 2018.

According to Dr Ahmed, more than 90 per cent of the patients studied were from South Asian countries, with Indians accounting for over 65 per cent of cases. However, the figures relate to patients treated at a specialist cardiac centre in Dubai and should not be regarded as reflecting the prevalence of heart disease across the UAE population.

Doctors say a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors contributes to the early onset of heart disease, including family history, physical inactivity, poor diet, smoking, stress, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and excess weight. The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention also identifies smoking, hypertension, high cholesterol, obesity and insufficient physical activity as major factors that increase the risk of heart disease.

Dr Ahmed advised people who experience heart palpitations or dizziness during physical activity not to ignore these symptoms. Those with a family history of heart disease, diabetes or high cholesterol should also seek medical assessment and undergo regular screening.

The World Health Organisation continues to identify cardiovascular diseases as the leading cause of death worldwide, emphasising that many cases can be prevented by reducing tobacco use, maintaining a healthy diet, staying physically active, and managing blood pressure and other risk factors.