Cardiovascular problems are often associated with increasing age, but the increase in such problems in youth is worrying. Some recent reports suggest that cardiovascular diseases start affecting Indians a decade earlier than in Western countries. It is worth noting that almost two-thirds (62%) of those who die due to cardiovascular problems are Indian youth.
We often hear the word 'cholesterol' when it comes to heart health, but it is mostly used in a negative sense. But what exactly is cholesterol and why should the youth pay equal attention to it to keep their heart healthy? Cholesterol is an essential fatty substance, which is important for the functioning of cells and the production of hormones.
Types of cholesterol
There are different types of cholesterol, such as high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, which is called 'good cholesterol'. Whereas low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is called 'bad cholesterol'. When it is present in excessive amounts, plaque starts accumulating in the arteries, and the risk of heart disease and stroke increases. According to a study, 6 out of 10 Indians have high levels of LDL cholesterol.
Is High LDL Cholesterol and Heart Disease Linked?
Due to high cholesterol levels, the risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular problems increases significantly. Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) includes conditions such as heart attack and stroke and remains the leading cause of death in India. Alarmingly high levels of LDL-C are a major contributor to this epidemic. Excessive amounts of LDL-C can cause plaque to form and veins to shrink or close. In such a situation, blood flow to the heart reduces and there is a possibility of ASCVD. Therefore, knowing LDL-C levels is very important to understand your heart health. Educating youth about managing LDL cholesterol levels lays the foundation for a healthy future. By promoting a better understanding of cholesterol and its effects on the heart, new generations can make informed decisions about their lifestyle.
Expert Opinion
Dr. Preeti Gupta, Associate Professor, Safdarjung Hospital, Delhi, says that I have always emphasized that youth should get their cholesterol levels checked at an early age, especially when they are in their 20s. Be around. I observed elevated levels of LDL-C, a major contributor to the increased risk of heart disease, in at least 50 patients. The level of LDL-C is increased in more than 50% of them, due to which many patients are not diagnosed.
Dr. Preeti further explains that people with family background also sometimes remain undiagnosed and people above 40 years of age are at higher risk of developing ASCVD (atherosclerotic heart disease). Lifestyle choices combined with genetic factors prove to help increase cholesterol levels, which if ignored, increases the risk of heart disease at an early age. By the age of 20, it is important to undergo cholesterol screening and get the lipid profile checked so that the risk factors can be corrected and treatment can be started as soon as possible. Each patient requires a personalized prevention plan based on their LDL-C target. Incorporating good habits into your lifestyle and staying active lays the foundation for a healthy heart in the future.
