PRECLINICAL INDICATORS AND DIAGNOSTIC APPROACHES TO MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION IN YOUNG ADULTS-ORIGINAL ARTICLE

Abstract

Background: Myocardial infarction (MI) in young adults is increasingly recognized as a major public health concern. Unlike older populations, MI in young adults often arises from a complex interplay of traditional and non-traditional risk factors and may remain clinically silent until an acute event occurs. Objective: This review aims to summarize the preclinical indicators, underlying pathophysiological mechanisms, and current diagnostic approaches relevant to early identiication of myocardial infarction risk in young adults. Methods: A narrative review of published literature focusing on myocardial infarction in individuals aged 18–45 years was conducted. Studies addressing pathophysiology, risk factors, screening tools, and diagnostic strategies were analyzed. Results: Preclinical indicators such as endothelial dysfunction, autonomic imbalance, subclinical atherosclerosis, inlammatory biomarkers, and genetic predisposition play a critical role in the early development of myocardial infarction in young adults. Diagnostic tools including electrocardiography, biochemical markers, imaging modalities, and risk stratification models aid in early detection, though their routine use in asymptomatic individuals remains debated. Conclusion: Early recognition of preclinical indicators combined with targeted diagnostic strategies can
improve risk stratiication and prevention of myocardial infarction in young adults. Incorporating physiology-based screening approaches may reduce morbidity and mortality in this population.