Heart disease in fit people? Cardiologist explains hidden risks and ways to prevent it

When people think about heart disease, they often imagine someone who is overweight, inactive, or living with unhealthy habits. But doctors warn this belief is misleading and even dangerous. Fitness lowers the chances of developing heart disease, but it does not completely protect anyone from it. Many healthy-looking people, including athletes, gym enthusiasts, and yoga practitioners, have faced serious heart problems.

Cardiologist Dr. Subrat Akoury from Asian Hospital explains: “Fitness definitely lowers the risk of heart disease, but it doesn’t make anyone immune. We see young, active people, marathon runners, gym enthusiasts, and even yoga practitioners coming in with heart problems. Genetics, stress, undiagnosed conditions, and metabolic factors beyond exercise can silently affect heart health.”

This shows that heart health is not just about how active you are but also about what is happening inside your body.

Hidden risks beyond physical appearance

Looking fit on the outside does not always mean being safe from heart disease. Many silent factors can still affect your health. Doctors say high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, and family history are some of the most important risks. Even if a person appears healthy, their arteries may be narrowing due to genetic reasons or hidden health issues. Unfortunately, these problems often go unnoticed until something serious like a heart attack happens.

Relying only on external fitness without regular health check-ups can be dangerous. There have been cases where professional athletes, despite being in top physical shape, suffered sudden cardiac arrests. This highlights that no one is completely safe.

Experts warn that we should not judge health just by body shape or stamina. Internal health matters just as much, if not more.

Stress and lifestyle choices play a big role

Modern life adds another layer of risk. Long working hours, irregular sleep schedules, and high-pressure jobs increase stress levels, which put a heavy burden on the heart.

Dr. Subrat explains: “Chronic stress, irregular sleep, excessive work pressure, and poor dietary habits increase the risk of heart disease significantly. Fitness routines often cannot compensate for high stress levels or unhealthy eating patterns. Heart health must be looked at holistically.”

This means that even people who exercise daily can still face problems if they eat poorly, drink too much alcohol, smoke, or do not sleep enough. Stress, both mental and physical, can quietly harm the body, leading to long-term damage.

Why regular check-ups are important

Doctors strongly advise regular medical tests, even for people who feel fit and young. Being active should not create a false sense of security. Preventive check-ups can help detect risks early before they turn into serious problems.

Dr. Subrat says: “Annual cardiac screening, blood tests, and blood pressure monitoring are essential, especially after the age of 30. Prevention is always better than emergency intervention.”

Simple tests like lipid profiles, ECGs, and echocardiograms can reveal hidden risks. Early detection allows doctors to suggest lifestyle changes or medication before complications happen. This is especially important because some heart diseases show no clear warning signs.

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A holistic approach to heart health

According to doctors, staying fit is just one part of the larger picture. True heart health needs a balanced lifestyle. Along with exercise, eating a nutritious diet, getting enough sleep, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol, and managing stress are all equally important.

Dr. Subrat puts it simply: “Heart health is holistic. Fitness is one part of the equation, but so are mental health, genetics, and timely diagnosis. A comprehensive approach is the real key to preventing heart disease.”

This means that to keep your heart healthy, you must care for both your body and mind. Exercise helps, but without good sleep, a balanced diet, and stress control, it is not enough.

Heart disease is not only a problem for people who appear unhealthy. Even fit and active people can face hidden risks. Genetics, stress, and unnoticed medical conditions play a big role in heart health.

The most effective way to protect your heart is to combine fitness with regular medical check-ups, healthy eating, stress management, and proper rest. Prevention, balance, and awareness are the true shields against heart disease.