WHAT works non-stop while we sleep, laugh, run, study and chase goals? Our heart. Yet many young people think heart disease is a worry for later in life, only affecting “old people”. This belief is dangerous and costs lives.

A common myth is that only older people get heart disease. While heart attacks and strokes happen more often later in life, the problems that cause them often start much earlier. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, lack of exercise, and unhealthy eating are just as common in teens and young adults. In Jamaica, past studies found that 30,000 children aged 10 to 19 had high blood pressure, a major risk for heart disease. Many of them felt healthy, which shows how quietly heart disease can develop.

Heart attacks and strokes are the leading causes of death worldwide. Each year, they kill about 19.8 million people, making up 32 per cent of all deaths. Heart disease is common and is already a serious issue for young people.

A lot of young people believe, “I’m young, so I’m safe”. But this is not true. Drinking more sugary drinks, eating more fast food, being less active, smoking, and spending more time on screens all increase the risk of heart disease. In Jamaica, about 34 per cent of people aged 15 and older have high blood pressure. In the Caribbean, high blood pressure rates are between 21 per cent and 27 per cent, which are among the highest in the Americas. If left untreated, high blood pressure can damage the heart and blood vessels early in life.

Many people think heart disease only means heart attacks, but it also includes heart failure, irregular heartbeats, and heart problems caused by high blood pressure. About 85 per cent of deaths from heart disease are due to heart attacks and strokes, but many people live with ongoing heart problems that cause tiredness and trouble focusing. For young people, this can lead to missed opportunities, school interruptions, and long-term health issues.

This is important for young people because heart disease can affect their plans and dreams, not just their health. In Jamaica, heart disease and stroke are responsible for about 30 to 35 out of every 100 deaths. What we eat, how active we are, how we manage stress, and whether we smoke all play a role in our future heart health.

Heart health is not just a personal issue. It also affects society and the economy. When young people develop heart disease early, it puts pressure on families, communities, and the health care system. In the Caribbean, higher rates of heart disease are linked to a lack of affordable, healthy food, safe places to exercise, and good preventive care. Policies that provide healthy food near schools or encourage people to stay active show that everyone has a role in supporting heart health.

The good news is that most heart disease can be prevented. Know your numbers: blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, and body mass index. Aim to be active for at least 30 minutes each day, choose water over sweet drinks, eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, avoid tobacco, and find ways to reduce stress. Even small changes make a difference. For example, drink coconut water instead of soda, or eat a piece of fruit instead of a snack. Try having a “heart-strong day” to start building better habits.

Take care of your heart by eating healthy, staying active, getting enough rest, and making smart choices today. Your future begins now. Every heartbeat counts.

The Heart Foundation of Jamaica has been sharing these messages for 55 years. By working with schools, communities, and health partners, they help prevent heart disease and raise awareness. The foundation proves that education saves lives and that young people are key to a healthier future.

Offniel Lamont is a sports medicine, exercise and health specialist, physiotherapist and public health youth advocate. E-mail ghapjm@gmail.com.