High blood pressure (hypertension) in young adults is caused by a combination of lifestyle, genetic, and health factors. Key causes include:

• Excessive salt (sodium) intake: High sodium levels cause the body to retain fluid, increasing blood pressure

• Low potassium levels: Potassium helps balance sodium in cells; low potassium can raise blood pressure

• Obesity and overweight: Excess weight strains the heart and circulatory system, raising blood pressure risk

• Physical inactivity: Lack of exercise contributes to weight gain and poor cardiovascular health, increasing hypertension risk

• Tobacco use: Smoking and tobacco use raise blood pressure by damaging blood vessels and increasing heart rate

• Excessive alcohol consumption: Drinking too much alcohol is linked to increased blood pressure, especially in young men

• Stress: High stress levels can cause temporary blood pressure spikes and lead to unhealthy behaviors that worsen hypertension

• Family history and genetics: A family history of hypertension raises the likelihood of developing high blood pressure

• Other medical conditions: Conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, hypothyroidism, and sleep apnea can cause secondary hypertension in young adults

In young adults, lifestyle factors such as smoking, drinking, poor diet (high salt, low potassium), obesity, and inactivity are the most common contributors to high blood pressure. Studies show that absence of physical activity and smoking are particularly prevalent risk factors in this age group

. Additionally, young men may have higher rates of smoking and alcohol use, contributing to their elevated risk

. Overall, hypertension in young adults results mainly from modifiable lifestyle behaviors combined with genetic predisposition and some underlying health conditions. Addressing these factors early is crucial to prevent long- term cardiovascular complications