Assessing the Burgeoning Challenge of Heart Disease among Young Adults in Punjab, Pakistan

Abstract

Background: Heart disease has emerged as a major global public health challenge, particularly in developing nations like Pakistan. The World Health Organization (WHO) must prioritize attention to heart disease, which is escalating rapidly among young adults. This research aims to evaluate the national prevalence, risk factors, and profiles of young adult patients with Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) and to analyze their tendencies, attitudes, behaviors, and knowledge using the Health Belief Model (HBM) at the Punjab Institute of Cardiology (PIC) in Lahore, Pakistan. Methods: The study included consecutive patients aged 15-45 years with documented medical records and heart-related issues. A direct empirical study was conducted from December 1st, 2021, to March 31^st 2022, involving a sample of 900 patients selected from the Pakistan Institute of Cardiology (PIC) in Punjab, Lahore. Statistical analyses, including descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, logistic regression, analysis of variance, and application of the Health Belief Model, were employed. Results: Analysis revealed that 66.3% of males and 33.7% of females suffered from heart disease. Blood pressure (BP) was identified by 60.7% of participants as a significant risk factor. Individuals aged 35-44 were more susceptible to heart attacks. Family history, blood pressure, chest pain, shortness of breath, lack of exercise, fast food, salt, obesity, and stress significantly correlated with heart attacks (p-value < 0.05). Conclusion: The study highlighted smoking, high blood pressure, stress, lack of exercise, obesity, fast food, salt, and family history as key risk factors for CHD. Significant knowledge gaps, attitudes, and prevention practices related to heart attacks were identified in adults. The government and public medical organizations in Pakistan should intensify efforts to enhance national health education and public awareness to prevent coronary artery disease (CAD).