Lifestyle factors driving early heart disease in UAE women, Zurich report finds

UAE—A recent consumer report by Zurich International Life Ltd. Middle East has highlighted a concerning rise in early-onset heart disease and critical illnesses in the UAE, alongside a significant gap in insurance coverage that leaves many financially exposed.

The 2025 Customer Claims Paid Report by Zurich, part of Zurich Insurance Group, reveals that claims related to heart attack and stroke deaths among women have surged by 50% since 2020.

This increase is linked to lifestyle risk factors such as smoking and physical inactivity, which are becoming more prevalent among women across all age groups.

Notably, one in ten women who claimed living benefits for heart disease were smokers.

The report, based on claims made between 2022 and 2024 against Zurich’s retail and group life policies, shows a shift in both the profile and preparedness of claimants.

Zurich paid out over US$241 million in claims this year, up from USD 210 million last year, reflecting the rising health risks.

Despite this, awareness and insurance coverage remain insufficient. Three out of five women have life cover below US$200,000, and on average, men have 88% higher life cover than women.

This disparity poses serious financial risks, especially in households where women contribute significantly to family income or are the primary earners.

The data also dispels the myth that life-altering illnesses only affect older people.

Claims for life cover have been made by individuals as young as 27, with critical illness claims starting from age 23.

Alarmingly, a critical illness claim was even filed for a 9-year-old child, underscoring that no age group is immune.

This trend highlights a gap in perception, as many still view insurance as something to consider later in life4.

For families without adequate coverage, the sudden loss of a parent or breadwinner can cause immediate financial hardship.

Ongoing expenses such as rent, school fees, debts, and daily living costs continue even when income stops.

Cancer and heart disease remain the leading causes of death claims in the region, accounting for nearly 50% of all such claims.

The average age for life cover claims is now 52 years, and for terminal illness claims, 51 years.

 While the oldest death claim was at 80, the youngest was just 27, reflecting a shift in the age profile of claimants.

Shilpa Chitanand, Head of Retail Distribution at Zurich Middle East, emphasized Zurich’s commitment to supporting families during difficult times, noting that 98% of life claims across 73 countries are paid, with most claims settled within 72 hours when all documents are provided.

She highlighted the sharp year-on-year increase in life and critical illness claims as a clear signal that the need for protection is greater than ever, yet many families still act too late.

The report also shows a growing awareness among Middle East residents about the importance of protecting themselves and their families.

 However, comprehensive insurance coverage is still rare.

Shilpa stressed the importance of early action, including regular health check-ups, managing lifestyle risks, and securing adequate insurance for both life and critical illnesses to mitigate financial devastation.

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