An emerging challenge: about the article clinical aspects of heart failure in young adults

Abstract

Heart failure in young adults is emerging as a global challenge, challenging the perception that it is a disease exclusive to older adults. The presented study, involving a total of 65 patients, reveals a unique profile: male predominance, a high prevalence of modifiable risk factors (hypertension: 63%, smoking: 44%), and a predominant ischemic etiology, in contrast to international series where cardiomyopathies predominate. In-hospital mortality (32.4%) far exceeded figures from high-income countries (1.3%-10%), possibly due to late diagnosis, limited access to advanced therapies, and uncontrolled comorbidities. These findings, although with methodological limitations, highlight the need for primary prevention (hypertension control, smoking), early diagnosis with biomarkers and echocardiography, and addressing social determinants. Heart failure in young adults, associated with disability and socioeconomic impact, requires comprehensive clinical and psychosocial care strategies and adaptation of guidelines to local contexts to reduce health inequities.