A recent survey has revealed that 31 percent of Indians struggle with high cholesterol, with Kerala topping the list with an alarming 63 percent prevalence. The survey, conducted by Healthians, has found that this trend is particularly concerning among the 35-54 age group, where 34.5 percent of individuals are affected.
“High cholesterol is a lifestyle disease that houses the body of an individual because of poor eating habits, sedentary lifestyle, and stress,” warned Dr. Gagan Saini, heart health expert at Healthians. “Regular health check-ups, balanced diets, and physical activity can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease.”
India’s alarming rise in lifestyle-related health issues, driven by lifestyle changes, stress, and unhealthy habits, demands urgent attention. The equal prevalence of high cholesterol among men and women (31% and 30%, respectively) highlights the universality of this concern. Regional disparities, with Kerala, Karnataka, and Telangana emerging as hotspots, underscore the need for targeted interventions.
The report’s findings serve as a wake-up call for India’s healthcare system, emphasizing the imperative shift from curative to preventive measures. As cardiovascular diseases surge globally, India must prioritize proactive healthcare to mitigate this epidemic’s far-reaching economic and social implications.
Deepak Sahni, Founder of Healthians, stresses, “India’s high cholesterol crisis necessitates a collective response from policymakers, healthcare providers, and individuals. By prioritizing preventive healthcare, promoting awareness, and embracing healthy lifestyles, we can combat this rising epidemic and secure a healthier future.”
What does the report says?
- 31% of Indians struggle with high cholesterol
- Kerala tops the list with 63% prevalence
- 35-54 age group most vulnerable (34.5%)
- Men and women equally affected (31% and 30%, respectively)
What is the state-wise status of high cholesterol?
The report highlights significant regional disparities:
- Kerala (63%)
- Karnataka (31.9%)
- Telangana (27.4%)
- Maharashtra (27.3%)
- Punjab (24.5%)
- Gujarat (23.4%)
- Madhya Pradesh (22.4%)
- Haryana (19.7%)
- Uttar Pradesh (17.7%)
- Delhi (17%)
- Bihar (15.3%)
Which age-group is more vulnerable?
The 35-54 age group is disproportionately affected:
- 34.5% affected
- Kerala leads with 69% of this age group affected
- Karnataka (48%)
- Tamil Nadu (37%)
- Telangana (35.6%)
- Significant numbers from other states
Which gender is more at risk?
The report reveals equal prevalence among men and women:
- 31% of men and 30% of women affected
- Kerala tops with 63% of both men and women affected
- Goa follows closely with 46% of women and 43% of men affected
What needs to be done to improve the status?
- Prioritize preventive healthcare measures
- Increase public awareness campaigns
- Promote regular health check-ups, balanced diets, and physical activity
- Develop healthcare infrastructure, particularly in rural areas
- Encourage lifestyle modifications to combat this rising epidemic
How you can keep your cholesterol levels in check?
- Get regular health check-ups
- Maintain a balanced diet
- Engage in physical activity
- Manage stress levels