Rising Heart Disease Rates in Middle Age: Prevention Through Regular Checkups and Healthy Habits

[medi K / HEALTH IN NEWS] As people age, maintaining heart health becomes increasingly critical, with cardiovascular disease emerging as a significant concern for those in their 40s and beyond. Data from South Korea’s National Statistics Office reveals that the heart disease mortality rate for individuals in their 40s is 5.4 per 100,000 people, rising sharply to 14.4 in their 50s and 28 in their 60s. According to the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service, the number of patients diagnosed with myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack, is steadily increasing. Often beginning without symptoms in one’s 40s, this condition carries a high risk of sudden death due to acute chest pain, underscoring the need for vigilance.

Lifestyle Changes: The Foundation of Prevention

Dr. Hyun-guk Lee, director of the Cardiovascular Center at Busan On Hospital, emphasizes the dangers of myocardial infarction, which occurs when a coronary artery becomes blocked, leading to an initial mortality rate of approximately 30%. To reduce this risk, experts recommend quitting smoking, moderating alcohol consumption, engaging in regular aerobic exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress, and controlling chronic conditions.

Activities such as brisk walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming for at least 30 minutes daily can significantly benefit heart health. Smoking and excessive alcohol intake accelerate atherosclerosis, a condition that hardens and narrows arteries, placing undue strain on the heart. A heart-healthy diet should prioritize low-sodium and low-fat foods, incorporating fresh vegetables, fruits, nuts, and fatty fish like mackerel or sardines.

Myocardial infarction, which rapidly increases from the 40s onwards, must be prevented through regular checkups and healthy lifestyle habits. (Photo provided by Clipart Korea)

Regular Checkups: Detecting Hidden Risks

Dr. Jun-hyeok Oh, a specialist at the Cardiovascular Center, describes the 40s as a pivotal decade for health management, stressing the importance of routine screenings. Daily blood pressure monitoring is essential to ensure readings remain within the normal range (120/80 mmHg), as hypertension is a leading cause of heart disease that often presents no symptoms.

Diagnostic tests such as electrocardiograms (ECG), echocardiograms, coronary artery calcium CT scans, exercise stress tests, and Holter monitoring are critical for assessing heart function. Blood tests to measure cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood sugar levels can identify risks for atherosclerosis and diabetes. Symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness warrant immediate medical attention.

Dr. Geun Jeong, president of the Korea Hospital Association, advises that “early detection and treatment of asymptomatic heart conditions through regular checkups and self-monitoring can be lifesaving.”

Lim Hye Jung / press@themedik.kr

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