Evaluation of Risk Factors, Clinical Presentation, and Outcomes of Acute Myocardial Infarction in Young Adults

Background: Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI) in young adults is an emerging public health concern due to distinct risk profiles and clinical outcomes compared to older populations. Understanding these differences is essential for prevention and timely intervention. This study aimed to assess the risk factors, clinical presentation, and in-hospital outcomes of AMI in individuals aged 18–45 years. Methods: A six-month cross-sectional study was conducted from 1st April to 30th September 2025, including 127 young AMI patients through non-probability consecutive sampling. Inclusion criteria encompassed adults aged 18–45 years diagnosed with AMI based on clinical evaluation, classical and contemporary ECG changes, and at least two positive cardiac biomarkers (troponin or CK-MB). Both genders were included. Data on sociodemographic, risk factors, clinical features, diagnostics, treatment modalities, and outcomes were collected. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v26; ANOVA, chi-square, and t-tests were applied, with p < 0.05 considered significant. Results: The mean age was 38.4 ± 4.5 years, with 98 (77.2%) males. The most prevalent risk factors were smoking (70.1%), physical inactivity (59.1%), and dyslipidemia (44.1%). STEMI occurred in 94 (74.0%) patients and was associated with higher troponin I, CK-MB levels, and lower ejection fraction compared to NSTEMI (p < 0.001). Physical inactivity correlated significantly with in-hospital heart failure (p = 0.045). PCI was associated with the shortest hospital stay (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Young adults with AMI carry a high burden of modifiable risk factors, especially smoking and inactivity. STEMI presents more severely, while PCI improves outcomes. Gender-specific risk patterns highlight the need for targeted screening and preventive strategies. Early identification and aggressive modification of risk factors may reduce premature cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.