A person may experience a heart attack at a young age (defined as before age 55 for men and before age 65 for women), depending on a number of circumstances, such as:
- Genetics: An early heart attack risk factor is a family history of heart disease. The risk may also be increased by specific genetic diseases such familial hypercholesterolemia.
- Lifestyle factors: An unhealthy lifestyle, such as smoking, lack of exercise, poor diet, and stress, can increase the risk of heart disease and heart attack
- Medical conditions: Medical conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, and metabolic syndrome can increase the risk of heart disease and heart attack.
- Substance abuse: The use of certain drugs, such as cocaine and amphetamines, can increase the risk of heart attack.
- Other factors: Other factors that can increase the risk of heart disease and heart attack include age, gender, and ethnicity.
It is crucial to remember that a person does not definitely have a heart attack at a young age just because they have one or more of these risk factors. To lower the risk of heart disease and heart attacks, it is crucial to manage these risk factors. This can involve altering one’s lifestyle, taking medicine as directed by a doctor, and scheduling routine exams.

Other elements that can cause heart attacks in children and adolescents include:
- Autoimmune diseases: A number of autoimmune conditions, including lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, can raise the risk of a heart attack.
- Inflammatory illnesses: There is also a link between inflammatory conditions and an increased risk of heart disease and heart attacks, such as periodontitis (gum disease) and psoriasis.
- Trauma: A catastrophic auto accident, for example, might harm the arteries and raise the risk of a heart attack.
- Radiation therapy: Heart disease and heart attacks may be more common in people who have undergone chest radiation therapy for cancer treatment.
It’s important to note that young people rarely experience heart attacks; instead, those who have a number of risk factors are more likely to experience one. To lower the risk of heart disease and heart attack, it’s crucial for people of all ages to maintain a healthy lifestyle, treat any pre-existing medical issues, and have routine exams. One should get quick medical help if they have heart attack symptoms including chest discomfort, breathlessness, or lightheadedness.