What Lifestyle Factors Can Contribute To Youth Hypertension, Experts Weigh In

The rapid advancement of technology in the modern age has undoubtedly propelled human progress, but it has also brought about significant changes in lifestyle that make individuals more susceptible to certain diseases. In today’s world, age is no longer a determining factor for health issues, including hypertension, which can affect anyone regardless of age.

Hypertension is characterized by the hardening and stiffening of blood vessels, leading to increased blood pressure in the arteries. This puts a significant strain on the heart, as it has to work against this elevated pressure. While aging is one of the causes associated with hypertension, it is now evident that young people are also at risk.

According to Dr. Vaibhav Mishra, Director & Head – CTVS, Cardiac Surgery (CTVS), Cardiac Sciences, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Patparganj, the assumption that young people are immune to hypertension no longer holds true. Today’s lifestyle incorporates numerous factors that make young individuals more vulnerable to developing hypertension.

Dr. Mishra further emphasizes the impact of modern lifestyle on hypertension, citing stress, lack of sleep, inadequate exercise, excessive consumption of fast food and junk food, and elevated stress levels as contributing factors.

Dr. Bharesh Dedhia, Chief of the Department of Critical Care at P D Hinduja Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Khar, highlights the role of an unhealthy diet and lifestyle in causing hypertension. Studies have shown a correlation between blood pressure levels in young adults and factors such as high salt and fat intake, obesity, physical inactivity, sedentary behavior, and inadequate sleep duration.

He adds, “Additional factors such as smoking, chewing tobacco, and excessive alcohol consumption can also contribute to metabolic disorders like insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and inflammation, which further worsen hypertension and its consequences. Children with a high birth weight are at a greater risk of developing elevated blood pressure in their childhood and youth, but those who transition to a normal weight do not face the same risk.”