Survey Shows "Three Highs" Trend Younger

Ahead of World Heart Day tomorrow, a survey reveals more than 80% of respondents have at least one of "three highs", while showing the conditions are skewing younger.

Heart patient support group "Care For Your Heart" and the HKU School of Nursing conduct rapid tests for the "three highs" on 122 citizens aged 25 to 50 in Central this month.

Results show more than 80% have at least one of the "three highs", which is blood pressure, blood sugar, or blood lipids.

The highest number of people testing positive for high "bad cholesterol", including those under 35.

Results also show they share common lifestyle habits.

Nearly 85% drink sugary beverages at least once a week.

Most feel high levels of stress and sit for more than six hours a day at work.

Nearly half sleep less than six hours daily.

Some eat fast food three or more times a week and do not exercise.

Doctors point out the "three highs" show no early symptoms, advising the public to improve their lifestyle habits early.

DR.WONG CHUN-KA, Honorary Specialist of Queen Mary Hospital, says " One important thing is to have higher awareness of the fact that even younger individuals can have high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and cholesterol, because traditionally, I think many people believe that these are some conditions that only exist in elderly or in older individuals, but it's not actually true."

The doctor advises people to exercise regularly, drink fewer sugary drinks, and get regular health check-ups.