Rohan Mirchandani, the co-founder of Epigamia, India’s leading Greek yogurt brand, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 42 due to cardiac arrest. The news was confirmed by Drums Food International, Epigamia’s parent company, leaving the food and startup communities in shock.

Cardiac arrest, a sudden cessation of the heart's function, has increasingly become a cause of concern for younger adults. Once associated with older adults, this life-threatening condition is now claiming the lives of people in their 30s and 40s.

Cardiac arrest, a medical emergency where the heart suddenly stops beating, has become a silent killer among adults under the age of 50. Once considered a condition primarily affecting older people, it has now permeated younger demographics. According to a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology in 2023, cases of sudden cardiac arrest in people aged 35–50 have risen by over 13 per cent globally in the past decade.

- Sedentary Lifestyles: Modern lifestyles, dominated by long hours of desk work and minimal physical activity, have significantly contributed to deteriorating cardiovascular health.

- Unhealthy Diets: Increased consumption of processed foods, trans fats, and sugar has escalated the risk of obesity and heart-related ailments.

- Stress and Burnout: High-pressure jobs, coupled with poor work-life balance, have led to chronic stress—a key factor contributing to heart problems.

- Undiagnosed Medical Conditions: Hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes often go undetected in younger people, silently damaging their cardiovascular systems.

- Smoking and Alcohol Use: Excessive consumption of tobacco and alcohol exacerbates the risk of heart disease, even in seemingly healthy individuals.

Dr David Friedman, a leading cardiologist at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York, explains, "One of the primary reasons for the surge in cardiac arrests among younger adults is the lack of early screening for heart conditions. Many people in their 30s and 40s do not realize they are at risk because symptoms like fatigue or minor chest discomfort are often ignored."

Adding to this, Dr Suzanne Steinbaum, a preventative cardiologist and the author of Heart Book explains the role of chronic stress. "When stress becomes a constant, it leads to high blood pressure and inflammation—two critical factors for cardiovascular disease. Young adults are increasingly falling prey to this due to demanding careers and lack of mindfulness practices," she said.

While the statistics are concerning, cardiac arrest is largely preventable through lifestyle modifications. These include:

- Regular Health Check-Ups: Annual screenings for cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar can detect early signs of heart trouble.

- Exercise: Engaging in moderate physical activity, such as walking, cycling, or swimming, for at least 30 minutes a day significantly improves heart health.

- Healthy Eating Habits: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

- Stress Management: Incorporating yoga, meditation, or mindfulness practices into daily routines can alleviate stress and improve overall well-being.

- Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol: Reducing tobacco use and moderating alcohol intake is essential for maintaining a healthy heart.

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