Lucknow, Sept. 29 -- Health experts are concerned in the wake of an escalating health crisis among individuals under 45 years, who are increasingly falling victim to cardiac issues and lifestyle diseases that were once primarily associated with older populations. Leading cardiologist Prof Satyendra Tewari of Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS) said pollution was now recognised globally as a major health hazard, impacting the lungs and heart, especially among children and the elderly. "Fine particulate matter and toxic air pollutants not only trigger respiratory illnesses but also increase the risk of heart disease and stroke," he said on the eve of World Heart Day. But environmental factors are just part of the problem. He said, "Over the last four decades, the prevalence of diabetes and hypertension in India has increased eightfold, driven largely by two major factors: genetic susceptibility and high carbohydrate consumption." While genetics cannot be altered, the doctor said that dietary habits can be changed. "For the last 30 years, Indian diet has seen a dramatic increase in carbohydrate intake. White rice, refined flour, and sugar-laden foods dominate meals," added Dr Tewari. "This is contributing to insulin resistance, weight gain, and eventually diabetes and high blood pressure." Meanwhile, there has been a sharp rise in heart attack deaths among young Indians, he added. "We are now seeing heart blockages and cardiac arrests in people as young as 30 or 35, and many of them have no prior history of heart disease. Sedentary lifestyles, poor nutrition, chronic stress, and air pollution, which are prevalent in urban areas, are to blame. "Young working professionals are increasingly vulnerable. Long hours, lack of physical activity, fast food, and pollution all add up," he added. Among young women, a demographic traditionally considered at lower risk, hormonal factors and underdiagnosis often lead to delayed treatment, making outcomes worse....