Impact of Stress and Lifestyle on Cardiac Health in College Students
Submitted by Ria sharma, Bsc nursing 3rd year student from Sharda University in India
Tags: cardiac health cardiovascular disease nurse well-being Nursing Initiative nursing students Stress among Nurses Young People
Abstract Cardiac diseases are increasingly affecting young adults due to unhealthy lifestyles and high stress levels. College students are particularly vulnerable because of academic pressure, irregular eating habits, sedentary lifestyle, and lack of physical activity. Based on my observations during clinical postings, many students skip meals and stay up late for exams, which can negatively affect heart health. This article explores how stress and lifestyle factors impact cardiac health and highlights preventive strategies and nursing interventions to promote heart wellness among students. Introduction Cardiac diseases, including hypertension, arrhythmia, and coronary artery disease, are major causes of morbidity worldwide. While genetics play a role, lifestyle choices such as poor diet, physical inactivity, smoking, alcohol consumption, and chronic stress are significant contributors.
College students often face high academic pressure, irregular sleep, and poor dietary habits, making them prone to early signs of cardiac stress. Nurses play a crucial role in educating students to adopt heart-healthy habits and prevent long-term complications. Impact of Stress on Cardiac Health Stress triggers hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which increase heart rate and blood pressure. Chronic stress can contribute to hypertension, arrhythmia, and early development of atherosclerosis. From my experience during clinical observations, students under academic pressure often develop unhealthy coping habits, such as overeating, consuming excess caffeine, or skipping meals.
These behaviors can negatively affect cardiac health over time. Influence of Lifestyle Factors
1. Dietary Habits: Irregular meals, fast food consumption, and high intake of fats and sugar increase cholesterol levels and obesity risk. During my college, I noticed many students prefer junk food during exam season.
2. Physical Inactivity: Prolonged sitting while studying reduces cardiovascular fitness and raises heart disease risk. Students often skip exercise due to busy schedules.
3. Sleep Patterns: Insufficient or irregular sleep is linked to high blood pressure and impaired heart function. Late-night studying is common among students, further increasing risk.
4. Substance Use: Tobacco, alcohol, and excessive caffeine can raise heart rate, blood pressure, and damage arteries.
Role of Nursing Interventions
Nurses can play a vital role in preventing cardiac disease among students by: Conducting awareness programs on heart-healthy lifestyles. Educating students on stress management techniques, including meditation, deep breathing, and time management. Encouraging regular physical activity, such as yoga, walking, or gym exercises. Monitoring blood pressure and heart rate during health camps. Promoting balanced diet habits, reducing processed foods and sugar intake. Adding personal experience or observation strengthens the article and makes it original. Conclusion Cardiac health among college students is heavily influenced by stress and lifestyle choices. Preventive measures, awareness, and timely nursing interventions can reduce the risk of developing cardiac diseases early in life. As nurses, we have a key role in educating and motivating students to adopt heart-healthy habits, improving both immediate well-being and long-term cardiovascular outcomes.
References
- World Health Organization. Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs) Fact Sheet. 2024.
- Sharma R, et al. Stress and Lifestyle Factors in Young Adults: A Review. Journal of Nursing & Health Science, 2023; 12(4): 45-52.
- American Heart Association. Heart Disease Risk Factors in Youth. 2023.
- Indian Heart Association. Heart Health in Young Adults. 2022.
Notes: This article is an original work by the author based on research and clinical observations during nursing training.