Young man with stents warns heart attacks spare no age or fitness

A 32‑year‑old man with two heart stents says heart attacks can strike anyone, regardless of age or fitness. Shaumit Biswas, who survived a myocardial infarction, posted an Instagram video warning that youthful looks or regular exercise do not guarantee a healthy heart. He urged regular health checks and highlighted the need to test for Lipoprotein(a) – a genetic risk factor – along with sleep, balanced diet, activity and stress control. Cardiology expert Dr Anup Taksande of KIMS Hospitals in Thane said many people wrongly believe that symptom‑free, active individuals have clean arteries. He noted that high blood pressure, diabetes, abnormal cholesterol and inherited risks can stay hidden for years. For most adults, he recommends monitoring blood pressure, blood sugar or HbA1c and a lipid profile from early adulthood, with testing frequency set by age and personal risk. More advanced exams such as ECGs, stress tests, echocardiograms or coronary calcium scans may be useful for those with symptoms, multiple risk factors or a strong family history, but they should not be routine for every healthy adult. The test chosen should answer a clear clinical question. Lp(a) testing is valuable because the protein particle’s level is largely inherited and lifestyle changes affect it little. Elevated Lp(a) raises the chance of plaque buildup, early heart attacks, strokes and calcific aortic valve disease, even when ordinary cholesterol appears normal. Guidelines advise a one‑time Lp(a) measurement in adulthood, especially for people with premature heart disease in the family. Biswas also suggested cutting down sugar and oil. Taksande cautioned against labeling any single food as “good” or “bad”. He advises limiting saturated and trans fats, using unsaturated oils, and avoiding reheating oil. A balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, pulses, nuts and moderate protein supports heart health. For exercise, Biswas recommends 30‑45 minutes of activity four to five days a week; Taksande adds that adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate‑intensity activity plus strength work each week.

Context

Young heart attacks are becoming more common as lifestyle and genetic factors intersect, making routine screening essential even for people who feel fit.