Healthy, fit – and still at risk of heart disease

Columbia Asia Hospital in Petaling Jaya is marking its 30th anniversary with a heart health promotion campaign. A recent case involves a 33-year-old woman who, despite being in excellent physical shape, was shocked to learn she had a 70-80% blockage in one of her blood vessels and high cholesterol levels. This highlights that cardiovascular disease risk is not just a concern for older adults.

Consultant interventional cardiologist Dr Chua Ping Lik says he now frequently sees younger patients, aged 30-40, presenting with coronary artery blockages. While exercise and fitness are generally beneficial, they can sometimes act as an unplanned stress test, revealing hidden cardiovascular issues. Early warning signs include reduced stamina, breathlessness disproportionate to effort, irregular or fast heartbeats, and palpitations that persist even after rest.

To maintain heart health, Dr Chua recommends a balanced diet with Malaysia's "quarter-quarter-half" healthy plate concept - a quarter carbohydrates, a quarter protein, and half vegetables and fruit. He advises enjoying favorite foods occasionally and filling the rest of the plate with vegetables, fruit, and omega-3-rich fish. Regular health screenings, including ECG, blood tests, exercise stress tests, and echocardiograms, are crucial for early detection.

High-risk patients may benefit from more detailed scans like CT coronary angiograms. Dr Chua emphasizes that early screening should begin by age 30, with more frequent check-ups for those with risk factors. Columbia Asia is offering heart health screening packages until September 30 as part of its 30th anniversary celebration.