SHAH ALAM - Sudden deaths in young individuals are primarily caused by cardiovascular issues, often resulting from physical exertion without awareness of the condition of their blood vessels or heart.
In recent years, an alarming trend has emerged, with sudden deaths occurring among young individuals who are otherwise athletic, physically healthy, and active.
This unsettling pattern has triggered concern and curiosity, as it defies the common belief that youth and fitness are synonymous with health and longevity.
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) Public Health Medicine Specialist Professor Dr Sharifa Ezat Wan Puteh emphasised that many people often exert themselves physically without knowing the condition of their blood vessels or heart.
"In addition to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding high-risk behaviours is crucial for promoting heart health.
"This includes refraining from smoking tobacco and using drugs like cocaine, amphetamines, cannabis, and alcohol," she told Sinar Daily when contacted
Dr Sharifa noted that regular exercise, managing calorie intake, preventing obesity, managing stress, and ensuring adequate sleep can reduce the risk of hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease.
"Limiting processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive red meat consumption is also beneficial.
"A study recently stated that those who had an unfavourable lifestyle were 78 per cent more likely to die before their time than those with a favourable lifestyle, regardless of genetic predisposition," she added.
Echoing similar sentiments, Consultant Public Health Specialist Professor Dr Hematram Yadav highlighted that sudden deaths in young individuals are primarily due to genetic or congenital factors, though they can also result from acquired heart diseases.
"These conditions often affect heart rhythm, strain the heart muscle, and disrupt blood flow, potentially leading to death.
"Overexertion, genetic predisposition, and drug use can also contribute to sudden death in young people.
"Cardiovascular causes account for approximately 73 per cent of these cases.
"Lifestyle factors such as diet, sleep patterns, stress management, and the intensity and frequency of training sessions play a significant role in this issue," he said.
Dr Hematram also recommended undergoing a cardiovascular check-up for any abnormalities before engaging in strenuous exercises. "Psychological factors, such as performance pressure from coaches and self-imposed pressure to achieve higher standards, are crucial.
"This type of pressure can impact both mental and physical health.
"Therefore, assessing each athlete individually and evaluating their ability to handle mental pressure is essential.
"Regular medical check-ups are necessary. A robust support system, including consistent cardiovascular and mental health monitoring, is especially important during significant competitions," he added.
He also pointed out that engaging in strenuous exercise at least two hours before bedtime is generally acceptable and should not disrupt sleep.
"However, exercising late at night is not advisable as it can negatively impact heart rate and sleep cycles.
"Late-night exercise increases adrenaline production, which raises heart rate, boosts oxygen levels, and enhances blood flow to the muscles, all of which can disrupt sleep," he added.