Study uncovers high prevalence of heart health risks in India

Team L&M

A new study on heart health among Indians highlights that almost half of the individuals tested showed abnormal heart health indicators. The study, conducted by Redcliffe Labs, over the past six months on over 2.4 lakh patients across India, comprising 40 per cent women and 60 per cent men who were evaluated on key markers, including Cholesterol, Triglycerides, HDL and LDL Cholesterol, Hs Troponin I, HS CRP, and NT proBNP. The findings underscore the urgent need for increased awareness and proactive measures to address the growing prevalence of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) in the country.

According to the study, approximately 1 in 2 individuals tested showed deranged heart health indicators, with test results falling outside normal ranges. This highlights a widespread cardiovascular risk across the population. Gender-specific insights from the study indicate that nearly half (52 per cent) of females exhibited abnormal results, while approximately 47 per cent of males were found with abnormal indicators. This data suggests that heart health issues are not confined to any one gender, although a slightly higher risk was observed among females.

Age group trends in the study reveal that in females, the highest rates of deranged results, approximately 60 per cent, were observed in individuals above 40, particularly during or after menopause. For males, concerningly high prevalence rates of abnormal results were seen in the younger age group as well, with about 48 per cent of males above 26 showing deranged heart health indicators. As age increases, the risk escalates further, with deranged results in men above 40 years exceeding 52 per cent. These findings emphasize the early onset of cardiovascular risk factors in males and the critical need for early detection and intervention.

Despite the common belief that heart health disorders are predominantly an urban issue, the study’s results challenge this perception. It was found that while urban regions (Tier 1) exhibited slightly higher rates of deranged test results, at 51 per cent, Tier 2 and Tier 3 regions were not far behind, with 48 per cent of tests indicating abnormal values. This data reflects that cardiovascular risk factors are prevalent across the population, irrespective of geographical location, underscoring the need for a broader approach to heart health awareness and preventive care.

Aditya Kandoi, CEO & Founder, Redcliffe Labs, emphasised the urgency of addressing these findings, stating, “These results serve as a wake-up call for all of us. The data clearly shows that heart health risks are pervasive, affecting nearly half of those tested, regardless of demographics, including gender, age, or location. It is crucial for individuals to take control of their health through regular screenings and proactive lifestyle choices. Women, in particular, need to be more vigilant, as they are often less proactive about preventive measures & diagnostic testing despite showing almost equal rates of abnormal results compared to men.”

The study also highlighted the need for targeted public health initiatives focusing on heart health education and regular screenings across all demographics. With deranged results prevalent in nearly half of the population, proactive health management becomes essential in mitigating cardiovascular risks.

Redcliffe Labs remains dedicated to empowering individuals with quality diagnostic services, driving better health outcomes, and fostering a healthier India. Further, Redcliffe Labs is committed to taking steps, especially when it comes to empowering women to take charge of their own and their families’ health. This will not only enable them to stay healthy but also allow them to be torchbearers for the entire family, their friends, and their network, leading to a cascading effect larger than ever.