World Heart Day: Most people in India know about their cholesterol, but very few know their personal LDL-C target. of the heart Cardiologists explain that no one-size-fits-all method of health care can be applied to everyone. When 34-year-old Vikram Desai got his annual health check-up report, his cholesterol level was within limits. Having a fit and active lifestyle makes them think everything is fine. After talking with doctors, they realized an important difference: Lab reports provide general information, but individual risk factors, such as family history or diabetes, determine a person's true low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) target.(Photo courtesy – istock)
Gut Health: Stomach not clean properly after waking up in the morning? 'These' changes in diet will eliminate indigestion problems
Vikram's case brings to light the growing reality in urban India. High cholesterol accounts for 7.8 percent of all deaths in India and 31 percent of individuals in the country have elevated cholesterol levels. People in India develop heart-related diseases 10 to 15 years earlier than people in Western countries. While many people know their total cholesterol numbers, few know what their personal LDL-C target should be.
Forms of LDL-C:
High LDL-C is often called the “silent killer,” because it slowly works to build up fatty deposits (plaque) in the arteries without causing any visible symptoms. This condition is called atherosclerosis. This can impede blood flow to vital organs, increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. Being young, physically active, or under weight control does not necessarily mean that LDL-C is in the expected range.
Individual goals for LDL cholesterol control:
Getting checked at an early age is essential to keep LDL cholesterol levels under control. The Cardiology Society of India (CSI) recommends lipid profile screening from the age of 18. Timely inspections help detect problems before they become serious. Even healthy-appearing individuals can have high LDL-C, so regular screening is important.
Consultant Interventional Cardiologist at Saifi Hospital, Mumbai Dr. Nimit Shah Said, “Early diagnosis is not just about checking statistics. Everyone's LDL-C target is different and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to care. Each person has individual risk factors such as age, family history, and other diseases like diabetes or high blood pressure that determine LDL-C levels. Keeping LDL-C levels within range is essential. Following your doctor's advice, being aware of your health status, and taking care of yourself on your cholesterol control journey is essential.”
Take care of your own heart health:
Take charge of your heart health by asking your doctor three important questions at your next health checkup:
What is my LDL-C level today?
What should my personal LDL-C goal be?
Is the level within my goal range, and if not, what are my options?
Even at the age of 76, Narendra Modi is eating healthy vegetables! Along with increasing vitamin B12, bone pain will decrease
Lifestyle changes such as a balanced diet, stress management and regular exercise are helpful in maintaining good heart health. However, these lifestyle changes alone are not enough to keep LDL-C levels under control. In such cases, lipid-lowering medication becomes necessary and long-term adherence to this medication is required.