Heath

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India is facing serious health challenges, with rising physical inactivity contributing to the prevalence of diseases like diabetes and hypertension. Among these growing threats, high cholesterol has emerged as a significant new health concern. The Cardiology Society of India’s 22-member committee recently issued guidelines to address dyslipidemia, a condition resulting from elevated cholesterol levels, which often goes unnoticed due to a lack of clear symptoms. This can silently lead to heart diseases, including heart attacks. The data presented by the committee is alarming, showing that 81% of India’s population has cholesterol levels above the safe limit, placing a large portion of the country at risk.

To identify high cholesterol, people are advised to undergo a lipid profile test. For the first time, India has introduced its own guidelines on how much lipid levels should be in the body. Effective treatment of high cholesterol can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease. Increased cholesterol is a dangerous condition that can lead to severe physical problems.

The emergence of new diseases can largely be attributed to an imbalanced, convenience-oriented lifestyle. Dyslipidemia is considered a lifestyle-related disorder, often linked to the prosperity that allows for unhealthy eating, substance abuse, and erratic lifestyles. Modern dietary habits, such as increased sugar, carbohydrates, and fat intake, are fueling the rise of this condition. Although it is commonly seen in wealthier individuals, a significant portion of the population, including those dependent on free food schemes, is also affected. This indicates that lifestyle alone cannot be blamed for the spread of this disease, and more in-depth studies are needed in the Indian context. If left unchecked, India could face a serious health crisis.

Dyslipidemia is spreading rapidly in India, often referred to as a “silent killer” due to its lack of obvious symptoms, which gradually lead to life-threatening conditions like heart attacks. The news regarding cholesterol levels is concerning, though the introduction of these guidelines is a positive step forward. Until now, Indian doctors have been treating cholesterol or advising lipid profile tests based on European Society of Cardiology guidelines.

Heart attacks are often attributed to factors like diabetes, hypertension, stress, tobacco use, and alcohol consumption. However, dyslipidemia, or abnormal lipid profiles, is now recognized as the leading cause of heart attacks in India, affecting over 80% of the population, many of whom are unaware of it. Experts note that heart disease has increased more in India than in Western countries over the past decade, largely due to poor diet, an imbalanced lifestyle, and reduced physical activity.

Addressing the issue of rising cholesterol levels is crucial. India faces a unique challenge, as a significant portion of the population lacks access to basic healthcare services. In rural areas, even treatment for common seasonal illnesses is not easily available. Where healthcare is accessible, the infrastructure to address conditions like dyslipidemia may still be inadequate. To combat this growing threat, it’s essential to raise awareness about prevention. A coordinated effort, similar to the one seen during the COVID-19 pandemic, could promote better health practices.

The accessibility of cholesterol treatment must also be improved. More than half of India’s population is physically inactive, with the country ranking 12th globally in terms of physical activity. According to the Lancet Global Health journal, 57% of Indian women and 42% of men are physically inactive.

Globally, health concerns have become a major issue, exacerbated by technological advancements, industrialization, population growth, urbanization, and the stressful environment of modern life. Both physical and mental health problems have risen significantly. Despite scientific progress, new diseases continue to emerge, presenting significant challenges. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), health isn’t just about eating well; it’s about ensuring that the world works together to help people live longer, healthier lives.

While healthcare in India has improved under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the country still faces new health challenges. There is a growing need for a health revolution in India, one that encourages individuals to adopt healthier habits and motivates governments to invest in healthcare infrastructure. Additionally, yoga, meditation, a balanced diet, and a disciplined lifestyle should be promoted as ways to control diseases.

Many physical and mental disorders arise from disregarding the “traffic signals” of life. The rise of mental health disorders and heart disease worldwide reflects this internal imbalance. Other incurable diseases are also rooted in an unhealthy lifestyle. Therefore, for good health, it is essential to maintain both mental and emotional well-being

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