7 Ways Heart Disease Risk Is Rising Among Indians

7 Ways Heart Disease Risk Is Rising Among Indians is not just a headline — it’s a growing reality. Across India, heart disease is affecting people earlier than ever before. Doctors are now treating patients in their 30s and 40s, many of whom look completely healthy on the outside. The silent rise of heart problems among young and seemingly fit Indians is a warning sign we can no longer ignore.

1. Body type and genes

Indians tend to carry fat differently — more around the belly even if they are not overweight. This “hidden fat” affects blood sugar and cholesterol, which are key factors in heart disease. Genes also play a role, making Indians more likely to develop heart problems earlier than people in many other countries.

2. Problems start early

Before someone feels chest pain or gets obvious symptoms, things like rising blood sugar, insulin resistance (when the body struggles to use sugar properly), and early weight gain begin quietly in the 20s or 30s. Over many years, this silently damages arteries.

3. Modern food habits

Traditional Indian food was often simple and healthy. Today, many people eat more refined flour, sugary snacks, fried items, and processed foods. These changes lead to higher “bad” cholesterol and lower “good” cholesterol, both of which increase heart risk.

4. Less movement

Daily life now involves less physical activity than before. People walk less, sit more at work, and often do not exercise regularly. A lack of movement makes the heart weaker and increases risk.

5. Stress and busy lifestyles

Long work hours, traffic, financial pressure, and poor sleep raise stress levels. Constant stress increases blood pressure and inflammation in the body, making heart disease more likely over time.

6. Tobacco and alcohol use

Smoking, smokeless tobacco, vaping, and alcohol use can harm blood vessels and raise the chances of blood clots. Though smoking has dropped for some, other forms of tobacco and drinking are still concerns.

7. Heart problems can run in families

If someone has close family members who had heart disease early, the risk for others in the family is also higher, partly because of shared genes and partly because of shared habits.

What doctors suggest

Heart disease among Indians often starts early and grows quietly. Because of this, doctors recommend:

• Regular health check-ups from a young age.

• Eating more wholesome foods like pulses, vegetables, and less refined sugar and flour.

• Staying active every day.

• Managing stress and getting enough sleep.

  
  

Small changes in daily habits can make a big difference in lowering the risk of heart disease.