IJN experts urges young adults to prioritise heart health

KUALA LUMPUR - Medical experts at the National Heart Institute (IJN) emphasise the importance of prioritising heart health among young adults, especially as cholesterol levels and cardiovascular risks rise in this demographic.

In a forum hosted by IJN titled ‘30s and Thriving: Prioritise Heart Health Early’, IJN Senior Consultant Cardiologist Datuk Dr Ahmad Khairuddin shared alarming statistics on the prevalence of high cholesterol in Malaysia.

"High cholesterol is a major risk factor for sudden heart attacks and strokes. According to the National Health and Morbidity Survey 2023, 7.6 million adults have high cholesterol in Malaysia.

“It is increasingly affecting individuals aged 25-29, putting them at a heightened risk for heart disease,” he said at the forum held yesterday.

Meanwhile, IJN Physiotherapist Sarjit Singh Jahal encouraged regular physical activity as a key strategy for managing cholesterol and reducing stress.

IJN Senior Principal Dietitian Foong Pui Hing also highlighted the benefits of a heart-healthy diet, recommending oily fish, vegetables, beans and fruits to manage cholesterol levels.

The event included personal stories, notably from popular chef and social media influencer Ili Sulaiman, who shared her heart disease experience after suffering a heart attack earlier this year at the age of 37.

"There were warning signs like regular inflammation and high stress levels that I overlooked. My health is now a top priority, especially as a mother and wife.

"I urge everyone, particularly those in their 30s, to get checked for high cholesterol and protect your heart today," she said.

At the event, IJN Chief Executive Officer Datuk Seri Dr Mohamed Ezani Md Taib also highlighted the institute’s dedication to improving cardiovascular care and raising awareness about heart health.

He emphasised that initiatives like the forum were part of a broader mission to promote early prevention.

“These initiatives, like today's forum, reflect our broader mission to instil a sense of urgency, especially among younger adults, to take charge of their heart health and see their doctors for regular screenings,” he said.

The forum was hosted by IJN as part of their 2024 World Heart Day campaign, themed ‘Neon Sparks, Healthy Heart Embarks.’

Moderated by IJN Clinical Cardiologist Dr Rowina Lynne, the forum focused on raising awareness about the increasing risks of high cholesterol and cardiovascular issues among younger adults, while emphasising the importance of early prevention and proactive heart health management.

Additionally, as part of its broader World Heart Day efforts, IJN has partnered with industry players like AstraZeneca and is hosting a week-long campaign at AEON Shah Alam from Sep 24 to Sept 29.

The event will feature interactive activities, heart health screenings, cooking challenges and special deals on medications at the IJN First pharmacy.