Risk factors in young Indian males with myocardial infarction.

Risk factors were assessed in 108 young Indian males with myocardial infarction. The mean age was 36 years (range 21-40 years). Cigarette smoking was the most common risk factor (79% of patients). Serum cholesterol levels were above 6.5 mmol/l in 50% and serum triglyceride levels were above 2.0 mmol/l in 53% of patients. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels below 0.83 mmol/l were found in 52% of patients. Ninety-six per cent of patients had one or more of the following risk factors: a history of cigarette smoking, hypercholesterolaemia, hypertension, and abnormal glucose tolerance. Thus, in young Indian males with myocardial infarction, one or more risk factors are usually present.