Why are Younger Adults Dying of Heart Failure?

Heart failure, also known as congestive heart failure, was always thought to be a disease of the old and sick. But a report published by the medical journal from the American College of Cardiology says heart failure is rising in people under 65 years of age.

The study shows that death rates are increasing for adults between 35 and 64 years old. The rates are even higher for African Americans.

Dr. Deepthi Mosali, Heart Failure Specialist with the Florence Wormwald Heart & Vascular institute at St. Elizabeth says, “This increase is likely due to a rising prevalence of the risk factors including obesity, diabetes, hypertension, sedentary lifestyles and poor lifestyle choices.”

What is Heart Failure?

Heart failure is when your heart can’t pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs either because the heart is stiffer and bulkier and unable to pump blood efficiently or the heart is weak and damaged and unable to pump blood adequately.

Certain medical conditions and lifestyle behaviors can increase your risk for heart failure, including:

• Abnormal heart valves.
• Congenital heart disease.
• Diabetes.
• Disease of the heart muscle (cardiomyopathy).
• Heart attack.
• Blocked arteries in your heart.
• High blood pressure.
• Infection.
• Obesity.
• Certain genetic conditions.
• Substance abuse such as alcohol, cocaine or amphetamines.
• Poor diet and lack of exercise.
• Tobacco use.

How Do You Prevent Heart Failure?

“Prevention is the key for heart failure,” says Dr. Mosali. “There are lifestyle changes that can be made to lower your risk factor for the disease.”

To prevent death from heart failure:

• Live a healthy lifestyle including maintaining a healthy weight, daily exercise, healthy diet and no tobacco use.
• Manage your diabetes, blood pressure and cholesterol with the help of a doctor.
• Understand the disease and your risk factors, including family history. If you recognize signs or symptoms, see your cardiologist right away.
• Take your medications and follow your doctor’s instructions.

If you have questions about heart failure, visit stelizabeth.com/heart or call (859) 287-3045 for an expedited appointment with a cardiologist.