The lesser-known factors putting young women at risk of heart attacks

             Written by: Sneha Jajoo

19 September 2025

Most people think heart attacks can only occur in older adults, but nowadays, even younger adults are experiencing them due to lifestyle and other factors. Let's dive in to understand more.

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Studies show that younger women often have heart attacks caused by SCAD or triggered by stressors. These risk factors often go unnoticed, increasing their vulnerability.

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Why Are Younger Women At Higher Risk?

SCAD (Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection) is a sudden tear in a coronary artery and is often missed.  Women are ~6X more likely than men to have SCAD.

What Is SCAD?

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Triggers like stress, severe infections, or anemia are a leading cause of heart attacks in young women.

Infections & Stress Can Trigger Heart Attacks

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Plaque is still the top cause for men, not in younger women.

Atherosclerosis: Still Common — But Not For Younger Women

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Treatment depends on the cause. Treating SCAD or stress-induced events the same as plaque-based attacks (e.g., routine stenting) can be harmful. Correct diagnosis guides safer care.

Why Cause Identification Matters

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High fever, chest pain, sudden breathlessness, fatigue—even in women who seem otherwise healthy. Don’t ignore these. 

Symptoms to Watch For

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Heart attacks in younger women aren’t always what we expect. Hidden causes like SCAD & stress exist. Stay informed—and insist on thorough care.

Final Note

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