Heart Attack Deaths Rising Among Young Adults, Women Most at Risk

Heart attack deaths are rising among younger adults. Women are more likely than men to die after their first heart attack. A new study published in the Go Red for Women spotlight issue of the Journal of the American Heart Association found a 1.2% increase in deaths among adults under 55 hospitalized with a first severe heart attack from 2011 to 2022.
Since 2004, the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women initiative has worked to close awareness and care gaps in women’s heart health. The JAHA spotlight issue highlights nearly a dozen studies emphasizing cardiovascular disease in women.

Women Face Higher Risks

Researchers analyzed nearly 1 million hospitalizations of U.S. adults aged 18-54 between 2011 and 2022. Women had higher in-hospital death rates for both severe and less severe heart attack types compared to men.
“These results were concerning,” said Mohan Satish, M.D., the study’s lead author. “We often think heart attacks mainly affect older adults, but younger adults especially women are at real risk.”

Heart Attack Types Explained

The study examined two heart attack subtypes: STEMI and NSTEMI. STEMI is caused by a complete blockage of a coronary artery and is more severe. NSTEMI results from a partial blockage and is less severe. Both types showed higher mortality among younger women than men.

Importance of Awareness and Prevention

Experts stress that awareness and early intervention save lives. Lifestyle changes, regular check-ups, and recognizing unusual symptoms are key. Communities and healthcare systems are encouraged to continue awareness campaigns and targeted prevention for younger adults, particularly women.
Young adults should not ignore heart health. Even small lifestyle adjustments and timely care can significantly reduce risks.