In a remarkable step, the Lipid Association of India (LAI) recently published new heart disease guidelines for Indian patients. The revised guidelines, released by the ToI on February 24, include the most recent data on cardiovascular risk assessment and cholesterol management, providing a complete approach to heart health.
According to Dr. Raman Puri, a distinguished cardiologist and the founding chairman of LAI, these new guidelines divide patients into separate risk groups. Notably, individuals with metabolic syndrome and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are encouraged to keep LDL cholesterol levels below 70 mg/dL, indicating a special goal for this category.
A notable change to the risk categorization is the establishment of 'Extreme Risk Group Category C.' This group is reserved for a tiny proportion of individuals who continue to endure chest pain despite receiving all available therapies. Dr. Vinod M. Vijan, an interventional cardiologist, recommends that persons in this category have LDL cholesterol levels ranging from 10–15 mg/dL.
LAI's dedication to preventative heart health is demonstrated by its suggestion for regular lipid profile tests. The guidelines propose that screenings for the general population begin at the age of 20. Screenings for men under 55 and women under 65 who have a family history of elevated cholesterol or early coronary heart disease (CHD) should begin as soon as possible, at the age of 2.
According to Dr. Puri, lipid profile testing should start at age two or as soon as possible, if feasible, in cases involving adopted children or families with elevated lipoprotein (a) readings.
A major addition to the new guidelines is the proposal to include lipoprotein (a) evaluation in lipid profile testing for initial screening. This is underlined since it affects 25% of Indians, highlighting the significance of complete lipid analysis for appropriate risk assessment.
The LAI's program is consistent with its aim to raise heart health awareness and promote preventive actions. By customizing guidelines to the particular cardiovascular landscape of the Indian population, LAI hopes to drastically reduce the burden of heart disease.
As the medical landscape changes, these revised guidelines become an invaluable resource for both healthcare professionals and the general public, enabling educated decision-making and proactive heart care. LAI's advocacy for thorough screenings and focused therapies demonstrates a commitment to promoting heart health at all stages of life.
As the medical landscape changes, these revised guidelines become an invaluable resource for both healthcare professionals and the general public, enabling educated decision-making and proactive heart care. LAI's advocacy for thorough screenings and focused therapies demonstrates a commitment to promoting heart health at all stages of life.
Ultimately, the latest guidelines from the Lipid Association of India represent a significant step forward in the fight against heart disease, emphasizing individualized methods to risk assessment and management for India's heterogeneous population. These guidelines, which incorporate developing evidence and specific recommendations, serve as a cornerstone in the country's ongoing effort to tackle cardiovascular diseases.
(Inputs from various sources.)
(Rehash/Susmita Bhandary/MSM)
