A very shocking revelation has come to light in the ICMR-INDIAB nationwide study of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and Madras Diabetes Research Foundation (MDRF). Nine out of 10 adults in the country (about 90 percent of the population) suffer from low levels of at least one blood lipid (fat). In medical language this condition is called dyslipidemia. This disease develops within the body without any initial symptoms and directly attacks the human heart. After this report, the Health Ministry has started preparations to issue an advisory for all the states.

Health Alert: 9 out of 10 adults in India are vulnerable to ‘silent killer’ dyslipidemia, Health Ministry issues warning

Bad cholesterol is making the heart sick without symptoms

According to the study, increased levels of bad cholesterol (LDL), triglycerides and a significant reduction in good cholesterol (HDL) have been observed in Indian adults. This condition causes blockage in the arteries, which increases the risk of sudden heart attack and stroke. This problem is spreading rapidly in the urban areas of the country as well as in the rural areas. Doctors say that people do not get regular checkups done, due to which this silent killer is detected at the last moment.

Warning from health experts and officials

“These figures are like a health emergency for the country. Dyslipidemia has no external symptoms, so people ignore it. By the time the patient reaches the hospital, his arteries are blocked to a great extent. Improving our lifestyle and diet is no longer optional but mandatory to save lives.”
— , Principal Researcher and Managing Director, MDRF

Impact on common citizens and preventive measures

After this report comes out, the Union Health Ministry is going to intensify the screening of non-communicable diseases (NCD) at the national level. Health officials have advised all citizens above 30 years of age to get a lipid profile test done at least once a year. Instructions have been given to make this test available free or at very low rates in government health centers and mohalla clinics. Doctors have appealed to stay away from refined oil, fast food and walk or exercise for at least 30 minutes daily.