A nationwide study by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)-INDIAB has revealed that 87.3% of Indian adults have at least one abnormal blood lipid level, highlighting dyslipidemia as one of the country’s most widespread yet under-recognised health challenges. The findings suggest that nearly nine out of 10 adults are living with unhealthy cholesterol or triglyceride levels, significantly increasing their risk of heart disease and stroke.
The study challenges the common perception that high cholesterol is primarily a problem among older adults, people with obesity, or those with diabetes. Researchers found that lipid abnormalities are common even among individuals who appear healthy, making the condition a “silent” cardiovascular risk. Because dyslipidemia often develops without noticeable symptoms, many people remain unaware of the problem until serious complications such as heart attacks or strokes occur.
Among the different forms of lipid disorders, low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL)—commonly known as “good cholesterol”—were the most prevalent abnormality. HDL helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream, and lower levels reduce the body’s ability to protect arteries from plaque buildup. The study also found elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or “bad cholesterol,” along with high triglycerides in a significant proportion of the population. These abnormalities contribute to the gradual narrowing of arteries, increasing the likelihood of cardiovascular diseases over time.
The burden of dyslipidemia was found to be particularly high among women, urban residents, and people living in Central India. Researchers also observed a much greater prevalence among individuals with prediabetes, diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and other metabolic disorders. However, the condition was not confined to these high-risk groups, reinforcing the need for broader screening rather than testing only those with visible risk factors.
The findings underscore the growing impact of lifestyle changes, including sedentary behaviour, diets rich in processed foods, excessive intake of saturated and trans fats, stress, and reduced physical activity. These factors, combined with genetic susceptibility among South Asians, have contributed to rising cholesterol abnormalities even in younger adults. Health experts note that Indians tend to develop cardiovascular risk factors at an earlier age compared with many other populations, making preventive healthcare increasingly important.
Medical experts recommend that adults undergo periodic lipid profile tests, particularly after the age of 30 or earlier if they have a family history of heart disease, diabetes, or other metabolic conditions. Lifestyle modifications such as adopting a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy body weight, avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol consumption, and managing stress can significantly improve cholesterol levels and reduce cardiovascular risk. In some cases, doctors may prescribe cholesterol-lowering medications based on an individual’s overall risk profile.
The ICMR study adds to growing evidence that cardiovascular diseases remain one of India’s leading public health concerns. Researchers believe that wider awareness, earlier diagnosis, and timely intervention are essential to curb the country’s increasing burden of heart disease. The findings also support calls for routine cholesterol screening to become a standard component of preventive healthcare, enabling millions of people to identify and manage lipid disorders before they lead to life-threatening complications.
