Let’s Keep Our Hearts Pumping

Let’s Keep Our Hearts Pumping — World Heart Day

September 29 is World Heart Day. India accounts for one-fifth of deaths due to cardiovascular diseases (CVD) worldwide, especially in the younger population. The age-standardised CVD death rate in India is 272 per 100,000 population — significantly higher than the global average of 235. We need to raise awareness in an exponential way.

Key Risk Factors for CVD in India

Elevated Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

1 in 4 people in India have elevated blood pressure levels. Research shows that 40% of CVDs happen because of elevated blood pressure. Regular exercise and physical activity help keep blood pressure in check.

Diabetes Mellitus

1 in 10 persons aged 18 and above have elevated blood sugar in India. In 2017, India was reported to have the highest number of diabetes cases globally. Unhealthy diets, sedentary lifestyle, and being overweight increase risk for diabetes — and diabetes significantly increases CVD risk.

High Cholesterol (Dyslipidaemia)

Approximately 79% of Indians have an elevation in at least one lipid parameter (LDL, HDL, or triglycerides), according to the Indian Council of Medical Research.

Smoking, Obesity, and Lifestyle

Tobacco smoking is one of the major modifiable risk factors for CVD. Obesity (BMI > 25) is increasing alarmingly in the urban population. Every second individual in India is physically inactive, and less than 10% have regular physical activity.

Genetics

There are 109 chromosomal loci known to be associated with coronary artery disease and CVD. These genetic factors, combined with lifestyle and dietary factors, together increase your risk of developing CVD. Understanding your genetic cardiovascular risk profile allows you to take targeted preventive action.