Health authorities and cardiology specialists in Brazil are raising concerns over a significant increase in the number of young adults seeking emergency care with symptoms of myocardial infarction. Once considered a condition primarily affecting older populations, heart attacks are now being reported with growing frequency among individuals under the age of 40.
According to data released by the Brazilian Ministry of Health, more than 234,000 medical attendances related to heart attack symptoms were recorded between 2022 and 2024 in patients below this age threshold. The figures have prompted renewed attention to cardiovascular disease prevention and early diagnosis among younger demographics.
Lifestyle changes and cardiovascular risk
Cardiology experts in Brazil point to lifestyle-related factors as a central explanation for this trend. Interventional cardiologist Dr Thiago Marinho, from Hospital Mater Dei, highlights that rising rates of overweight and obesity are directly linked to an increase in hypertension, diabetes and elevated cholesterol levels.
This combination of conditions significantly increases the risk of coronary atherosclerotic disease, a process in which the arteries supplying the heart become narrowed, restricting blood flow and increasing the likelihood of acute cardiac events.
The situation is further compounded by behaviours more commonly observed among younger adults, including the use of electronic cigarettes, anabolic steroids, excessive consumption of energy drinks and illicit drug use. Over time, these habits can contribute to structural and functional damage to the cardiovascular system.
Hidden and hereditary risk factors
In addition to lifestyle influences, specialists emphasise the role of genetic predisposition. A family history of early heart disease remains a critical warning sign. In Brazil, cardiologists advise closer monitoring when close relatives have experienced a heart attack before the age of 55.
Another condition of concern is familial hypercholesterolaemia, a genetic disorder that leads to abnormally high cholesterol levels from an early age. Without timely diagnosis and treatment, this condition substantially increases the risk of premature cardiovascular disease.
Prevention as the most effective strategy
Medical professionals consistently stress that prevention remains the most powerful tool against heart disease. Factors such as chronic stress, physical inactivity and unbalanced diets are strongly associated with cardiovascular risk, even in individuals with no known family history.
Brazilian specialists estimate that around 90% of heart attacks are linked to preventable causes. Without healthy habits, cardiovascular risk increases progressively over time, regardless of age.
A key challenge, according to clinicians, is that younger patients often fail to associate early symptoms with heart problems. Chest pain — particularly when triggered by physical exertion — shortness of breath and episodes of fainting should always prompt medical investigation.
A growing public health concern
The rise in heart attack cases among young adults represents an important public health issue in Brazil, reinforcing the need for early screening, lifestyle education and greater awareness of cardiovascular symptoms. Experts underline that recognising warning signs and addressing risk factors early can significantly reduce long-term complications and save lives.