Cholesterol - A Silent Threat Harming Your Heart
What are some risk factors for high cholesterol?
Understanding High Cholesterol and Heart Health:
High Cholesterol as a Risk Factor:
- Major cause of mortality in India, contributing to 28% of fatalities.
- Elevated prevalence of cardiovascular disease is a significant concern for public health.
Cholesterol Overview:
- Cholesterol is a vital substance for proper body function, present in the blood.
- Elevated cholesterol levels lead to plaque buildup in arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Risk Factors for High Cholesterol:
- Genetics:
- Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to high cholesterol.
- Diet:
- Consumption of saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol-rich foods raises the risk.
- Lifestyle:
- Sedentary behavior and lack of physical activity contribute to high cholesterol.
- Medical Conditions:
- Diabetes, hypothyroidism, liver or kidney disease elevate the risk.
Regular Cholesterol Checks:
- Crucial, especially if having risk factors.
- Allows for early detection and intervention.
Lifestyle Modifications for Heart Health:
- Diet Improvement:
- Reduce intake of saturated and trans fats.
- Physical Activity:
- Increase exercise and avoid a sedentary lifestyle.
- Smoking Cessation:
- Quit smoking for overall heart health.
Medical Intervention:
- Medications:
- Statins can help manage high cholesterol levels.
Holistic Approach for Heart Health:
- Making small lifestyle changes and addressing risk factors contributes to overall heart health.