CM Talks: Empowering Youth for Lifelong Cardiovascular Health

As Malaysians, we are blessed with an abundance of flavourful food, though much of it is high in calories and fat. Such unhealthy dietary choices, coupled with a lack of physical activity, have contributed to Malaysia having the highest prevalence of diabetes in Southeast Asia. Beyond diabetes, non-communicable diseases such as hypertension and hyperlipidemia have also been on the rise, driven by lifestyle changes and socioeconomic factors–all of which are significant risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

Poor dietary habits and sedentary lifestyles, followed by growing mental health challenges, have undoubtedly led to the emergence of cardiovascular disease among the younger demographics in Malaysia.

Dr. Tan Lay Khoon, Senior Consultant Cardiologist and Director of Women’s Cardiology at the National Heart Institute (IJN), stated that cardiovascular mortality accounted for 16.1% of all certified deaths in Malaysia in 2022. Additionally, data from the Ministry of Health (MOH) revealed that about 35.2% of heart attack fatalities in Malaysia occur in individuals under the age of 60. With cardiovascular disease being the leading cause of death in the country, it is crucial for Malaysians to start prioritizing their heart health from an earlier age.

In light of this, we at Charisma Movement explored the topic further with field experts Dr. Joshua Chung Bui Khiong from Sarawak Heart Centre (Kuching) and Dr. Raja Kumar Menon Bhaskaran from KPJ Selangor Specialist Hospital (Shah Alam), who generously shared their insights with us during a virtual panel session held in March entitled ‘Empowering Youth for Lifelong Cardiovascular Health’.

Nutrition and Lifestyle Choices: Building a Strong Foundation

The virtual panel session began by highlighting the crucial role of diet in long-term heart health. Dr. Joshua explained how poor eating habits such as consuming sugary drinks, processed foods, and excessive red meat significantly increase the risk of heart disease. Misconceptions among youth, such as equating a low Body Mass Index (BMI) with health, or thinking occasional healthy meals can offset a poor diet, were also addressed.

Early education, family support, and community environments that normalize healthy eating were emphasised as key strategies. Practical advice included eating more greens, drinking more water, and reducing red meat consumption. Moderation, rather than extreme dieting, was encouraged for lasting change.

Physical Activity: A Critical Ingredient

Dr. Raja spoke about the alarming decline in physical activity among young people, while using his own interactions with patients as an example. With screen time at an all-time high due to studies and leisure, many youths lead largely sedentary lives–a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

He stressed that even 30 minutes of moderate exercise a day can dramatically reduce heart disease risk. Successful initiatives such as school fitness programs and community sports activities were highlighted as models to encourage regular exercise. Making physical activity fun and accessible is key, especially in an era where digital entertainment often takes precedence.

Mental Health: The Silent Contributor

The discussion then turned to mental health–an often overlooked factor in cardiovascular wellness. Dr. Joshua explained that chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can trigger inflammatory responses in the body, raising the risk of heart disease.

Healthy coping strategies such as exercise, mindfulness, and creative hobbies were suggested as effective ways to manage stress. The panelists called for schools and families to treat mental health support as an integral part of overall health education, not just an optional add-on.

They also advocated for reducing stigma around mental health, ensuring young people feel comfortable seeking help when needed.

Access to Healthcare and Cardiovascular Education: Progress Made, Challenges Remain

While access to cardiovascular healthcare and education has improved in recent years, there is still work to be done. Dr. Raja noted that greater awareness today, thanks to more community clinics and initiatives, has made preventive care more accessible than before. Free basic health screenings offered at clinics and public health events have helped promote early detection and heart health awareness among young people.

However, disparities remain, particularly in East Malaysia. In regions like Sabah and Sarawak, hospitals are often few and far between, with underdeveloped road infrastructure making healthcare access difficult for many communities. Dr. Joshua stressed that while awareness is growing, policymakers must continue pushing for better healthcare accessibility in rural and remote areas.

Expanding community clinic networks and improving transportation infrastructure are essential to ensure that all youth, regardless of where they live, have an equal opportunity to care for their cardiovascular health.

A Healthier Future Starts Today

The session closed with a powerful reminder: sustainable cardiovascular health starts with small, consistent changes. Moderation in diet, regular physical activity, stress management, and accessible healthcare are all crucial components.

Youth today have an incredible opportunity to reverse current trends, but they need the right support from families, schools, healthcare providers, and policymakers. Investing in young people's heart health now means building a future where vibrant, healthy lives are the norm rather than the exception.

Ultimately, every small step counts. By taking action today, we can empower a generation to live longer, healthier lives with strong hearts leading the way.

By,

Iman Chin.

About Author

Iman is a second-year Nursing student passionate about exploring anatomical complexities while striving to provide holistic care to every patient she meets.