World Heart Day 2017: Heart Failures Occur Earlier in Indians, Cut Back on Salt to Avoid the Risk

In the wake of World Heart Day 2017, Indian cardiologists reveal that heart failure in the country occurs a decade earlier than elsewhere in the world. More and more young people in the country are suffering from cardiovascular issues. "I have seen young people walk in to my clinic with soaring cholesterol levels. People in their late twenties, early thirties are catching up high cholesterol and blood pressure among other lifestyle ailments," noted Dr. Rupali Datta, Consultant Nutritionist, Fortis Escorts, New Delhi.

According to the World Health Organisation, heart failure impacts more than 60 million people worldwide. "Stress, strain, pollution and all sorts of things exist everywhere in the world and are affecting the youth population as well. There is a general tendency towards younger population getting heart diseases in underdeveloped countries," shared Sanjeev Aggarwal, Director of Centre for Cardiac Sciences at Saroj Super Specialty Hospital, New Delhi.

Preventing heart failure

One of the recently conducted studies revealed that something as simple as cutting back on salt in your daily diet may go a long way in reducing your risk of heart diseases including heart failure. High salt diet has been linked to doubling the risk of coronary heart diseases. The World Health Organisation estimates as many as 2.5 million deaths to be prevented every year if people adhere to the recommended level of sodium intake - 5gms.

You can opt for low sodium foods in your diet; some of these would include fresh fruits, veggies and meats over processed, packaged and canned versions. Sauces, condiments and accompaniments are usually packed with excess salt for preservation purposes; steer clear of these as well.

Inputs from IANS