💔 Heart Attacks Are Becoming Too Common — And That Should Worry Us All

There was a time when heart attacks were something we associated with older people. But now, that is no longer true. Every week, we hear of someone young — a teacher, a student, a worker — suddenly collapsing and dying from a heart attack. These incidents are no longer rare. They are happening too often.

Just recently, a 36-year-old teacher named Niaz Ahmed passed away while delivering a lecture at a school in Lahore. He was attending a professional training session, speaking in front of his fellow teachers. Suddenly, he collapsed. He had suffered a cardiac arrest. Despite efforts to save him, he died shortly after. The video of his final moments spread widely on social media and left many shocked and heartbroken.

But this is not just one story. It is part of a growing problem that can no longer be ignored.

💔 What Is a Heart Attack or Cardiac Arrest?

A heart attack happens when the blood flow to the heart is blocked. This can damage the heart muscle. A cardiac arrest is even more dangerous — it happens when the heart suddenly stops beating. Without quick help, the person can die within minutes.

While both conditions are serious, cardiac arrest often comes without warning. The person may feel fine one moment and collapse the next.

📊 Some Eye-Opening Facts

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), heart disease is the leading cause of death in the world.

Every year, around 17.9 million people die from heart-related issues.

In Pakistan, more than 400,000 people die each year due to heart diseases.

What’s even more alarming is that heart attacks are now happening to younger people — some even in their 20s or 30s.

This is not just a health issue. It’s a silent crisis.

❓ Why Are Heart Attacks Increasing?

Let’s break down the most common reasons behind this growing danger:

1. High Stress Levels

People today are under more pressure than ever. Jobs, money problems, personal struggles — all of these add up. Stress raises blood pressure and affects heart health directly.

2. Lack of Physical Activity

Many people spend their day sitting — in front of a computer, at a desk, or using a phone. This lack of movement weakens the heart over time.

3. Unhealthy Food Habits

Fast food, fried snacks, sugary drinks — all of these block blood vessels and raise bad cholesterol levels. Our diets have changed, and our bodies are paying the price.

4. Smoking and Substance Use

Smoking remains a major cause of heart disease, especially in Pakistan. Some young people are also using gym steroids or energy drinks, which can quietly harm the heart.

5. Ignoring Warning Signs

Many people ignore symptoms like chest pain, tiredness, or shortness of breath. Sometimes, by the time they seek help, it’s already too late.

🧍‍♂️ Even the Young Are at Risk

In the past, heart attacks mostly affected older adults. But now, people as young as 25 or 30 are suffering — and even dying — from heart-related conditions.

Some of them are healthy on the outside. They may go to the gym, avoid junk food, or look fit. But inside, silent risks like stress, poor sleep, or high blood pressure could be building up.

This makes it even more important to take heart health seriously, no matter your age.

✅ What Can We Do to Stay Safe?

The good news is that there are simple steps we can take to protect our hearts:

• 🏃‍♂️ Exercise daily (even 20–30 minutes)

→ Keeps the heart strong and improves blood flow.

• 🥗 Eat more fruits, vegetables, and home-cooked meals

→ Helps lower bad fats and cholesterol.

• 💤 Get enough sleep (7–8 hours each night)

→ Reduces stress and supports overall heart health.

• 🚭 Quit smoking and avoid energy drinks or steroids

→ Removes major risks that can silently damage the heart.

• 🩺 Go for regular check-ups

→ Helps catch problems like high blood pressure or cholesterol early.

• ❤️‍🩹 Learn CPR and basic first aid

→ Gives you the power to save someone’s life in an emergency.

📢 Pakistan Must Take Action

Many workplaces, schools, and public places in Pakistan are not ready to handle heart emergencies. Most don’t have a defibrillator (AED) or even someone trained in CPR.

We need:

• Health awareness campaigns
• Free heart check-up camps
• Training sessions for teachers, students, and workers
• Emergency kits and trained staff in schools and offices

The government, media, and healthcare system must work together to spread awareness and save lives.

🙏 Final Words

The sudden death of Niaz Ahmed shocked the country. But sadly, he’s not the only one. So many people — young, talented, full of life — are being taken away too soon.

We must treat this like a wake-up call. Let’s stop ignoring signs. Let’s stop waiting for tragedy to strike. Let’s take care of our hearts — and encourage others to do the same.

Because tomorrow is never promised. And your heart is your most important gift.