INCREASE IN THE INCIDENCE OF HEART ATTACK IN YOUNG PEOPLE: RISK FACTORS, PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT

Abstract

The present study is a systematic literature review that investigates the growing and alarming incidence of Acute Myocardial Infarction in young populations, defined as individuals aged 50 years or younger. The main objective was to critically analyze the complex interaction of traditional and emerging risk factors, as well as specific etiologies and appropriate prevention and clinical management approaches for this age group. The methodology rigorously followed PRISMA guidelines, using primary databases such as PubMed and Scopus, with a focus on scientific articles published between 2020 and 2025 and the keywords “Myocardial infarction,” “Young adults,” “Risk factors,” “Prevention,” and “Management.” The findings demonstrate that the pathogenesis of premature MI is notably heterogeneous and accelerated, driven by the high and increasing prevalence of uncontrolled traditional factors such as obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and atherogenic dyslipidemia. The atherosclerotic process is further exacerbated by the rising role of emerging factors, including substance abuse and the high burden of chronic psychosocial stress and mental health disorders. Moreover, the review highlights the higher incidence of non-atherosclerotic etiologies, such as Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection and MI with Non-Obstructive Coronary Arteries, which require specialized diagnostic investigation to avoid mismanagement. It is concluded that effective management requires the implementation of aggressive and early risk screening in primary care, detailed etiological investigation in the acute setting, and secondary prevention and cardiac rehabilitation programs adapted to the psychosocial reality of young individuals, aiming for long-term adherence and reduction of early morbidity and mortality. Optimizing management protocols and raising awareness for high clinical suspicion in emergency departments are essential to counteracting this concerning trend.