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Heart Attacks Surge Among Young Adults, Especially Women

9/18/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A Mayo Clinic study shows a rise in heart attacks among young adults, particularly women, linked to nontraditional causes like spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD).
SCAD, which causes artery tears, is nearly six times more common in women and accounts for 10% of heart attacks in women under 65.
Over half of heart attacks in younger individuals arise from nontraditional factors, often leading to misdiagnosis.
Heart attacks in 18- to 44-year-olds increased by 66% from 2019 to 2023.
Traditional risk factors, such as high cholesterol, may not apply, highlighting the need for awareness and prompt medical attention for unexplained chest pain.

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Story summary

A Mayo Clinic study shows a rise in heart attacks among young adults, particularly women, linked to nontraditional causes like spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD).
SCAD, which causes artery tears, is nearly six times more common in women and accounts for 10% of heart attacks in women under 65.
Over half of heart attacks in younger individuals arise from nontraditional factors, often leading to misdiagnosis.
Heart attacks in 18- to 44-year-olds increased by 66% from 2019 to 2023.
Traditional risk factors, such as high cholesterol, may not apply, highlighting the need for awareness and prompt medical attention for unexplained chest pain.