When muscles, fat, and liver cells respond less to insulin, the condition is known as insulin resistance. The cells metabolise glucose/sugar less effectively. To compensate for the reduced metabolism, the pancreas releases a higher amount of insulin in the bloodstream causing higher-than-normal levels. Other problems include:
South Asians are prone to developing coronary artery disease with these factors. Only individuals with diabetes are not at the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
Individuals who have diabetes have a two to four times increased risk of developing heart disease or stroke compared to those without diabetes. Up to 20% of the South Asian population is affected by insulin resistance and diabetes.
It is unclear why South Asians present with greater insulin resistance compared to other ethnic groups. It is believed that South Asians may have:
South Asia is believed to be the largest contributor of stroke fatalities in the world, with over 40% of global stroke deaths occurring in the region. Stroke-related fatalities could be as higher as for coronary artery disease. In South Asia, both coronary heart disease and stroke occur among a younger populace on average compared to the rest of the world.
Research on the carotid artery disease among South Asians living overseas has shown similar results. The rate of stroke is quite higher in South Asians as against the Europeans. Furthermore, South Asians have greater rates of stroke-related deaths as against the Europeans.
Studies indicate that South Asians face 2-3 fold greater risk of coronary artery disease as against other ethnic factions.
Consequently, there is a higher chance of South Asians having heart attacks, bypass surgery or angioplasty at an early age and are more likely to suffer fatality from the heart attacks.
South Asians are more susceptible to coronary artery disease. They face quadruple risk of the disease, and the disease manifests up to 10 years early compared to other ethnicities.
Upwards of 50% of South Asians have their first heart attack before they are 50 years old. In India, cardiac care is reactive, with an individual receiving medical attention when he/she has had an attack. There is a lack of preventive cardiac care, which helps prevent heart attacks and reduce an individual’s cardiac risk. Cardiac rehabilitation focuses on gradually bringing the patient to their optimal heart condition; this is a big area that is not focused on in India.
Recent studies by the WHO indicate India being the global capital for cardiovascular disease (CVC) and diabetes. CVD affects individuals regardless of income level. The lower-middle and middle-class is as susceptible as the rich-class. There is no difference in susceptibility in rural or urban populations either.
Tamil Nadu state has the country’s highest mortality due to cardiovascular disease at 360-430 individuals per 100,000.
Note: These diseases hit the adult population at their most productive ages, which is responsible for an indirect loss to the economy. The WHO estimates a decline in national income by USD 7 billion in 2015 caused due to CVD.
We evaluate the risk factors and suggest treatment meant to slow down or halt disease progression for health conditions like coronary artery disease, or atherosclerosis.
• Lipid imbalance
• Cardio metabolic syndrome indicators
• Blood pressure
• Glucose
• Physical activity
• Assessment of lipid level and risk indicators such as CRP, Lp (a), and Apo B
• Risk factor control and lifestyle changes
• Referrals for appropriate cardiac testing as deemed necessary and appropriate and subsequent assessment of reports
• Referrals for genetic tests for cardiovascular conditions and following evaluation of reports
• Cardiac rehab programs, if deemed necessary
Risk factors for men and women differ. We have the Women’s Heart Health clinic dedicated to the treatment of heart disease for women.
Individuals presenting with early-onset cardiac diseases or at a higher risk of coronary disease are provided comprehensive and compassionate care. We also consider the individual’s family who may face potential cardiac health risks.
We target to comprehensively investigate the factors affecting the patient, evaluate risk, and provide treatment and suggest lifestyle changes to reduce the progression of atherosclerosis through primary and secondary prevention measures.
Our experts work on targeted therapy optimised according to the patient’s health condition. Medication and lifestyle modification are suggested, if necessary. We maintain patient health records and communicate digitally, facilitating secure online access to an individual’s medical information.
It is our endeavour to enable you and your family by making you aware of the health challenges and help the community deal well with cardiovascular risks ensuring a healthier life for all.