Risk factors for coronary heart disease in Asian Indians: clinical implications for prevention of coronary heart disease.

Contrary to popular belief that coronary heart disease (CHD) is uncommon in developing countries, Asian Indians have among the highest prevalence of CHD. Analysis of numerous studies have now revealed that the usual risk factors i.e. hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, obesity, smoking and a family history of CHD, are not common among South Asians. Rather, they possess a different risk factor profile characterized by high triglycerides, low HDL, glucose intolerance, insulin resistance, abdominal obesity and increased lipoprotein(a) levels. On account of this difference and the alarming explosion of CHD in India, guidelines for prevention of CHD as laid down by the American Heart Association may not be applicable in our population. A judicious diet incorporating commonly used Indian food items and regular exercise will go a long way in effective primary prevention.