Nearly nine out of 10 Indian adults have at least one abnormal lipid level, making dyslipidemia one of the country's most widespread health problems, according to a nationwide study by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).
The findings, based on the nationally representative ICMR-INDIAB study, showed that 87.3 per cent of Indian adults have an unhealthy balance of fats in their blood. Researchers analysed lipid profiles of 23,665 adults from across all states and Union Territories.
The study found that low high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or "good" cholesterol, was the most common abnormality, affecting nearly two-thirds of adults. Elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high triglycerides, and high total cholesterol were also reported.
Dr V Mohan, one of the study's authors and chairman of Dr Mohan's Diabetes Specialities Centre, said Indians are genetically predisposed to low HDL cholesterol, but lifestyle factors play an equally important role.
He said carbohydrate-heavy diets increase triglyceride levels and reduce HDL cholesterol. He recommended following the "plate concept", with one-quarter carbohydrates, one-quarter protein, and half the plate consisting of vegetables and fruits.
The study estimated that around 355 million Indians have abnormal lipid levels despite having normal blood sugar, normal blood pressure, and no obesity, challenging the practice of testing cholesterol only in people with conditions such as diabetes or hypertension.
Researchers also found that dyslipidemia peaks between the ages of 30 and 39, suggesting cardiovascular risk begins earlier than many people realise. Women had a higher prevalence than men, while urban residents were more affected than rural populations, though the gap was relatively small.
The study noted that abnormal lipid levels were more common among people with diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and sedentary lifestyles. It called for broader cholesterol screening, earlier detection and lifestyle interventions, including regular exercise, healthier diets, maintaining a healthy weight and reducing consumption of ultra-processed foods and trans fats, to help reduce the burden of heart disease and stroke.