Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Sep 29: World Heart Day serves as a reminder of the silent yet serious dangers of high LDL (‘bad’) cholesterol, a key driver of heart attacks and strokes that often shows no early symptoms. Doctors warn that even healthy-looking individuals and children may carry inherited risks.
High LDL cholesterol leads to atherosclerosis, where fatty plaques clog arteries and restrict blood flow, raising the risk of heart attacks and strokes. “Blood LDL levels are mostly genetically determined, with only a minor contribution from diet and exercise patterns,” explained Dr Anand Kumar V, Senior Consultant & HOD Cardiology, VPS Lakeshore Hospital, Kochi. “By the time there is any indication, it can be too late for successful treatment.”
Genetics play a critical role. Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), an inherited disorder, can cause dangerously high LDL from childhood. “Around 65 percent of our cholesterol is dependent on our genes and 35 percent can be modified with diet control,” said Dr Sandeep Chopra, Director Cardiology, Fortis Hospital, Ludhiana. “Even thin and lean patients can have very high cholesterol levels. Early detection is the best defence.”
The Cardiological Society of India highlights LDL reduction as central to heart-disease prevention. A Lancet study backed by ICMR found that over 81 percent of Indians have abnormal cholesterol levels. Experts recommend screening from age 18, or as early as 2 years if both parents have very high cholesterol.
“Statin therapy can reduce cardiac events by 30–50 percent, and advanced injectables like Inclisiran can help those who fail to reach targets with oral drugs,” noted Dr Milan Chag, Interventional and Heart Transplant Cardiologist, Marengo CIMS Hospital, Ahmedabad.
Doctors stress that routine cholesterol checks, lifestyle changes, and timely medication can prevent up to 90 percent of LDL-related heart events. On World Heart Day, health experts urge families to prioritize screening and consistent therapy to protect heart health across generations.