A generation once considered at the peak of health is facing a cardiovascular crisis.
New research from the American Heart Association reveals that young adults between 18 and 25 are experiencing heart-related risks at unprecedented rates, specifically because of factors such as rising obesity, increased tobacco use, and sedentary lifestyles.
Obesity and Tobacco Use Increasing
The scientific statement from the AHA, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, has shed light on a critical and often overlooked period of cardiovascular vulnerability: emerging adulthood. Many young adults come into adulthood with cardiovascular risks of obesity, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.The report found that initial tobacco use among 18- to 23-year-olds has doubled from 21 percent in 2002 to 42.6 percent in 2018, indicating a significant rise in smoking rates within this age group, according to Scott.
“Electronic cigarettes have now become the most commonly used tobacco product, and emerging research indicates their effects on blood vessels are similar to those of traditional cigarettes,” Scott said.
“Given the well-documented cardiovascular risks of cigarette smoking, this trend raises serious concerns about the long-term heart health of this population, pointing to the urgent need for prevention and intervention strategies.”
Furthermore, obesity affects a substantial portion of young adults, with more than one in five now classified as obese. This issue extends to younger populations, as projections suggest that more than half of children currently ages 2 to 19 are likely to be obese by the time they reach 35, highlighting a potential future public health challenge.
Finally, the report indicates that approximately 55 percent of young people report being physically inactive.
The statement is based on a thorough review of existing research surrounding cardiovascular health trends in emerging adults. The research finds that emerging adulthood is characterized by increased responsibilities and a growing need for independence, which can influence health-related behaviors.
The statement authors stress the importance of integrating heart health education into the experiences of young adults, focusing on factors such as lifestyle habits and the significance of social networks.
Scott said this report is “incredibly important” because it highlights a critical yet often overlooked period in life when cardiovascular health is not routinely discussed.
The AHA statement is “very significant,” Dr. David Asher Katz, a New York-based Northwell Health physician specializing in pediatric cardiology and adult congenital heart disease, told The Epoch Times.
Traditionally, cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and ischemic strokes are considered middle-aged to older adult health concerns.
Health Visits Decline in Adulthood
One key finding highlights the reduction in regular health check-ups for young adults. In childhood, routine visits frequently monitor weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels, the AHA statement noted. However, these checks tend to diminish after high school, leading to missed opportunities for young adults to assess their cardiovascular risks.Additionally, Scott said that young adults are especially vulnerable to adopting unhealthy habits, such as poor diets and increased sedentary lifestyles. Many become less active once they shift from structured environments, such as high school sports teams, to independent living.
The authors also noted that emerging adults constitute a significant portion of uninsured people in the United States, which is the “most, or one of the more alarming” trends in the statement, Katz said.
Preventative Measures
For emerging adults, Katz said “the best thing” they can do, as a preventative measure, is establish care with a primary care provider and follow up with their provider at least once a year. Katz emphasized that the risk factors for cardiovascular events—high cholesterol, obesity, diabetes, and hypertension—can be identified early by physicians. “They can work with patients to treat these issues with diet, exercise, and medications,” he said. “And by identifying and addressing these risk factors, it lowers the risk.”Scott recommended reliance on preventive measures aligned with the AHA Essential 8 framework to help emerging adults reduce their cardiovascular disease risk.
“Key health behaviors include avoiding tobacco use and staying physically active,” she said.
“Physical activity often declines in emerging adulthood, and sedentary behavior increases,“ she noted. ”Daily movement is so important—whether through walking, recreation leagues, or access to green spaces like parks, and can help counter rising sedentary behavior.”
Scott also emphasized psychological well-being, explaining that the “brain-heart-body connection” plays a significant role in cardiovascular health.
“Growing evidence links loneliness to long-term health risks. Although nearly all emerging adults are active on social media, I also encourage them to prioritize in-person connections, ideally through shared physical activity, which benefits both mental and cardiovascular health,” Scott said.
The AHA statement calls for comprehensive approaches tailored specifically for this age group, advocating for the integration of cardiovascular health education in schools and community colleges to build awareness and encourage healthier lifestyle choices.
Scott said it’s “so important” to establish heart-healthy habits early, and small changes in physical activity, nutrition, and stress management can have a lasting impact.
“Also, public health initiatives that promote awareness, education, and preventive care play a vital role in helping emerging adults adopt these practices, ensuring they can enjoy long, healthy lives.”
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