ICMR-led Study Estimates 10-Year Risks of Developing Heart Diseases in Adults.

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death and disability in India, accounting for a staggering 26.6% of mortality and 13.6% of disability. Factors such as obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and lifestyle choices contribute to the prevalence of CVDs.?

International Diabetes Federation Atlas estimates that around 72.9 million people live with diabetes in India. India stands second after China, holding most of the burden.??

A study by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) estimated the 10-year risks of heart disease in adults. The study was conducted on nearly 4,500 adults between the ages of 40 and 69. About half of them were between 40 and 49.?

The research includes surveys and questionnaires, including data from the World Health Organisation (WHO), to measure physical activity levels. The study came up with several theories. Obesity, unemployment, diabetes, lifestyle, and gender are significant causes of heart disease.?

The Growing Risk: Heart Disease Trends Among Adults

The study analyzed the overall risks of heart disease among adults. Approximately 85% have very low chances, 14.5% are at moderate risk, and 1% are at high risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVDs).?

The study also found that in the next 10 years, men were twice as likely as women to have a higher than 10% risk of developing heart disease. Research also shows that 10% or less may experience heart-related diseases, 10-20% at moderate, and more than 20% are at high risk.?

ICMR: Diabetes May Lead To Heart Diseases

77 million people in India live with diabetes, as stated by the International Diabetes Federation Atlas. India is already on the verge of diabetes and prediabetes.?

The study shows that participants with high blood sugar levels are at high risk of developing heart diseases. Over the next 10 years, 85% of women and 77% of men are at high risk of developing heart diseases.?

Diabetes may lead to heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure, and vision impairment. However, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is working to screen and provide standard care to 75 million people with diabetes by 2025.?

ICMR: Obese People Are At High Risks of Developing Heart Diseases

The sedentary lifestyle and the ease of online food delivery have led to a rise in obesity. India ranks at 182 among 197 countries for obesity in women and 180 for men. This is a significant factor contributing to the increased risk of heart disease.?

The ICMR study showed that obesity is a prominent reason for the increase in heart disease risk. Research shows that 71% of women and 55% of men are at high risk of heart disease in comparison to those who are not obese. A report in 2022 showed that 1.25 crore children between the ages of 5 to 19 are overweight.?

ICMR: Urban Vs Rural Lifestyle Role in Heart Diseases Risks

Urban people live a more sedentary lifestyle than rural people. The study shows a significant difference in heart disease risk among urban and rural populations. People in metropolitan cities are at higher risk than those in rural towns.?

The ICMR-led study showed that 17.5% have more than 10% risk compared to 13.8% of those living in rural areas. Additionally, two-thirds of the group is from rural areas.?

86% of urban women have a higher chance of CVDs than rural women. The research found that lifestyle plays an important role in health conditions.?

ICMR: Unemployment has a major role in Heart Diseases

The study finds a link between unemployment and heart disease. Unemployed people do not engage in physical activity, which causes obesity, diabetes, sluggish feelings, and laziness.?

88% of employed and homemakers, while only 54% of unemployed people have a low risk of CVDs. The research shows that employed or homemakers have less chance of heart disease.?

The study showed the importance of employment and economic stability in maintaining heart health. Unemployment brings stress, anxiety, and financial issues, which limit access to healthcare. These all together may lead to the risk of heart disease.?

What Are The Risks Associated With Cardiovascular Diseases?

People with the following factors are at high risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. These include:?

1. Type-2 diabetes?
2. High blood pressure?
3. High cholesterol?
4. Family history?
5. Medical history?
6. Overconsumption of alcohol?
7. Chronic inflammatory or autoimmune conditions?
8. Obesity?
9. Misuse of prescription or recreational drugs.?
10. Gestational diabetes?
11. Chronic kidney diseases
12. High-sodium rich diet
13. Usage of tobacco

Proven Ways to Prevent Heart Disease in Adults

Prevention is better than a cure. This proverb must have been heard since childhood but seldom followed.?

So, here are a few preventive measures you can add to your daily routine to prevent the risks of CVDs.?

1. Eat fruits, vegetables, and whole-grain foods to maintain a healthy lifestyle.?
2. Avoid consuming junk foods, saturated fats, processed foods, and high-sugar content food.?
3. Timely calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI) to maintain a healthy weight.?
4. Practice some physical activity for at least 30 minutes.?
5. Practice deep breathing exercises to manage stress.?
6. Sleep for at least 7-8 hours daily to prevent heart disease.?
7. Indulge in screening and diagnostic tests. Preventive tests may detect early signs and provide insights about your health.?

Practicing these activities in your daily life may prevent the risks of heart disease. Also, regular testing may prevent complications. Here are a few tests you must take to avoid the risks of heart disease.?

1. N-Terminal Pro B Type Natriuretic Peptide Test (NT-Pro BNP)?
2. Electrocardiogram (ECG)
3. Lipid Profile Test
4. High Sensitivity Troponin I Test?
5. LDL Cholesterol Direct Test?
6. Homocysteine Test?

The Role of Diagnostic Tests in Prevention

Diagnostic tests such as blood tests, CT scans, ultrasound, electrocardiograms (ECG), and MRI help with the right information about your health. These diagnostic tests help in early disease detection, the right diagnosis, personalized treatment and medications, and reduced healthcare costs. Redcliffe Labs, a purpose-driven pan India leading diagnostic service provider, offers 3600+ routine and specialized tests to accomplish the diagnostic requirements. Get yourself tested with us and avail of 100% report correctness to make informed health decisions.