Heart disease is not a distant storm.
It is often a quiet drizzle—barely noticeable—until one day it becomes thunder.
For years, many people have believed one simple thing: if you are obese, you will eventually have a heart attack. The statement sounds firm. Convincing. Almost like a final verdict.
But is it true?
According to cardiologist and vascular specialist Dr. Yislam Aljaidi, the answer is not that simple.
He explains that heart disease is closely related to risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension, cholesterol disorders, and obesity. However, not all risk factors must be present for someone to suffer a heart attack.
“Actually, you don’t have to have all the risk factors for heart disease, but you can still have a heart attack,” he explained during a media meeting in Cibubur (February 11, 2026). “Similarly, even someone who doesn’t have all the risk factors doesn’t necessarily have a heart attack, because everyone’s body responds differently.”
In other words, the human body is not mathematics. It is not a formula that guarantees results.
And this is where many misconceptions begin.
Obesity and Heart Attacks: Connected, But Not a Guarantee
So, are obese people more susceptible to heart attacks?
The honest answer: obesity increases risk, but it does not guarantee a heart attack.
Obesity is indeed one of the strongest contributors to heart disease. It often coexists with:
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High blood pressure
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Type 2 diabetes
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High LDL (bad cholesterol)
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High triglycerides
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Low HDL (good cholesterol)
These conditions together can lead to what doctors call metabolic syndrome.
Metabolic syndrome is not just a label. It is a cluster of medical conditions—abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, high triglycerides, and low HDL cholesterol—that occur simultaneously. And when they do, the risk of cardiovascular disease rises significantly.
However—here’s the important part—some people without obesity still suffer heart attacks.
Dr. Yislam emphasized that there are individuals who:
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Do not smoke
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Have normal LDL levels
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Maintain normal blood pressure
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Appear physically healthy
Yet they still experience heart attacks.
Why?
Because genetics, inflammation, stress levels, lifestyle patterns, and even undetected vascular conditions can silently damage arteries over time.
Therefore, weight alone is not the final judge.
But neither should it be ignored.
The Silent Danger: Why Many Patients Discover It Too Late
Here is the part that feels like a whisper in the dark.
Many patients look healthy.
Their EKG is normal.
Their heart pumps well.
Their daily activities seem fine.
But inside?
Blocked blood vessels.
Dr. Yislam shared a powerful example. One of his patients frequently complained about chest pain. His EKG results were normal. His heart function appeared good.
However, after undergoing a CT scan, doctors discovered that all of his coronary arteries were severely blocked. The condition was so advanced that stent insertion was no longer possible.
He had to undergo bypass surgery.
Imagine that moment.
Imagine thinking you are “fine,” only to discover your arteries are silently closing.
This is why early detection matters.
Research shows that individuals with a history of hypertension, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome are at high risk of heart attacks. But here’s the challenge: doctors cannot always predict exactly when the event will occur.
That uncertainty is what makes prevention crucial.
Because heart disease does not always announce itself loudly.
Sometimes, it simply waits.
Therefore, What Should You Do? Prevention Is Not Optional
If obesity does not automatically guarantee a heart attack, should you relax?
Absolutely not.
Instead, you should feel empowered.
Because if risk is not destiny, then action matters.
Dr. Yislam strongly emphasizes regular health screenings. By checking routinely, doctors can detect abnormalities early—before they turn into emergencies.
Recommended preventive steps include:
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Regular blood pressure checks
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Fasting blood sugar testing
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Lipid profile testing (LDL, HDL, triglycerides)
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EKG examinations
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Coronary CT scans (if indicated by symptoms)
Even if you feel healthy.
Even if you exercise.
Even if your weight is “not too bad.”
Because prevention is not about fear. It is about awareness.
And awareness saves lives.
If you are currently overweight or obese, this is not a sentence—it is a signal. A signal to:
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Improve your diet
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Increase physical activity
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Manage stress
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Get professional medical evaluation
The good news? Modern cardiology offers advanced diagnostics and treatments that can dramatically reduce risk—if detected early.
Take Control Today: Your Heart Deserves Attention
Let’s return to the original question:
Are obese people more susceptible to heart attacks?
Yes—because obesity often travels with dangerous metabolic conditions.
But does obesity guarantee a heart attack?
No—because every body responds differently, influenced by genetics, lifestyle, and unseen factors.
And that is precisely why professional medical evaluation is essential.
If you have risk factors—obesity, diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol—or if you experience symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue, do not delay.
Schedule a comprehensive heart screening with a trusted cardiology clinic.
Early diagnosis can mean:
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Avoiding bypass surgery
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Preventing severe artery blockage
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Protecting your long-term quality of life
Your heart has been working tirelessly for you since the day you were born.
Isn’t it time you worked for it too?
Book a consultation with a qualified cardiologist, perform the necessary tests, and take one decisive step toward a longer, healthier life.
Because in matters of the heart—waiting is not courage.
Action is.