Metropolis Healthcare has released findings from a nationwide analysis of 3.9 lakh lipid profile tests conducted over the past year. The study reveals a concerning shift in India’s cardiovascular landscape — one in four individuals shows abnormal cholesterol levels, with low levels of ‘good cholesterol’ (HDL) emerging as the single most common risk factor.
The findings underscore that lipid abnormalities are no longer confined to older adults or those with obesity. Nearly 60% of all tests were conducted among individuals aged 31–60 years, and within this group, cholesterol and triglyceride abnormalities were notably high — highlighting a crucial window for preventive action through lifestyle modification, regular monitoring, and timely medical intervention.
Key national insights from the study are that 35% of individuals showed low HDL levels, significantly increasing their risk of cardiovascular disease, about 30% had elevated total cholesterol, while 33% exhibited abnormal triglycerides, both strong predictors of heart disease. At least 24% showed borderline or high non-HDL cholesterol, a powerful indicator of atherosclerosis and 25% recorded borderline to very high LDL cholesterol, underscoring the widespread nature of lipid imbalance.
A striking insight from the study is that these abnormalities are increasingly independent of obesity. Many individuals who may otherwise appear healthy still presented with low HDL and elevated triglycerides — pointing to diet quality, sedentary behaviour, stress, and inadequate physical activity as major drivers of cardiovascular risk. This highlights the need to broaden public health messaging beyond weight management to a more comprehensive focus on heart health.
In response to the growing cardiovascular challenge, Metropolis Healthcare has launched the ‘Healthy Heart Meter’ campaign to encourage preventive care and raise awareness about heart health. The campaign features a simple five-question survey to help individuals assess their cardiovascular risk based on lifestyle choices, medical history, and basic health indicators.
Participants are classified as Low, Medium, or High Risk based on their responses. Those in the Low-risk category are recommended to undergo a lipid profile test, while individuals identified as Medium or High risk are advised to opt for the comprehensive TruHealth Vital Package, which includes a range of essential diagnostic tests designed to provide a holistic health assessment. Developed by senior subject matter experts and clinicians, Metropolis’ TruHealth Packages offer a comprehensive evaluation of internal health, enabling early detection and effective management of cardiovascular risks.
Surendran Chemmenkotil, managing director, Metropolis Healthcare, said: “Increasing public awareness and understanding of cardiovascular risks can significantly improve early diagnosis, help prevent severe outcomes, and ultimately save lives. By analysing in-house data and designing initiatives like the ‘Healthy Heart Meter’, we aim to empower individuals with actionable insights into their heart health and encourage timely diagnostic interventions. This reflects our unwavering commitment to identifying risks early and enabling better health outcomes.” |