Cardiovascular Diseases Lead As India’s Top Killer: US Cardiologist Points Out Risk Factors

Indians are facing an increasing burden of heart diseases, and mortality is rising faster compared to other countries. A top US cardiologist has now shared the major risk factors that range from genetics to obesity to pollution.

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) cause nearly 31 per cent of all deaths in India, according to the latest Sample Registration Survey (SRS) 2021-2023 data from the Registrar General of India, released in September 2025.

The SRS report highlighted cardiovascular diseases as the leading cause of death, especially among adults over 30.

Speaking exclusively to HealthandMe, Dr. Sripal Bangalore, Professor of Medicine at New York University School of Medicine, highlighted the key reasons why India is seeing a huge burden of heart diseases.

"I think it’s a combination of traditional and non-traditional risk factors. Globally, we are seeing the burden of obesity increasing, and specifically in India, genetic factors and non-traditional risk factors also play a role," Dr. Sripal said.

"There is a growing investigation into lipoprotein(a) and other causes of cardiovascular disease (in India). Obesity is a major risk factor, and I’m sure stress and pollution also add to it, with more and more data supporting these links," he added.

Data from the World Heart Federation showed that heart disease kills 28.6 lakh Indians every year. In the recent past, India has also been seeing a significantly higher rate of heart attacks and related deaths, even in children as young as 12 years old.

What Factors Are Driving This Trend

"I think we need to know that part of it tends to be non-traditional, because in the Western world most of it is explainable by traditional risk factors like hypertension, diabetes, and hypercholesterolemia," Dr. Sripal said.

"What we see in India is that it is less about those risk factors, but more about non-traditional ones, including potentially genetic factors and lipoprotein(a)," the doctor added.

The Indian-origin interventional cardiologist also cited lifestyle factors such as stress and pollution that are significantly adding to the increased risk of cardiovascular events in the country.

AHA 2026 Cholesterol Guidelines: Relevance For India

Recently, the American Heart Association (AHA) released cholesterol guidelines, which stressed the importance of early screening,starting wit teenagers.

The guidelines call for early intervention through early screening and healthy lifestyle changes, starting from childhood.

It recommends:

• Children (9-11 years): Cholesterol screening if never done before.
• Adults (30-79 years): Evaluate 10- and 30-year ASCVD risk to determine the need for early intervention

While the guidelines are "relevant overall" for all , the doctor stressed the need to personalize the recommendations based on each country and practice.

"India is a good example where LDL levels (bad cholesterol) may not be very high, like in the Western world. Many times, HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) tends to be lower, and there are other risk factors, including lipoprotein(a), which seems to be elevated here," Dr. Sripal said.

How To Improve Heart Health

The doctor also explained whether overall diet quality matters more than just cholesterol intake.

"Diet adds to the totality of everything that we do, including increasing the risk of obesity. Cholesterol may explain some part of it, but having a heart-healthy diet is critically important," Dr. Sripal said.

The cardiologist highlighted the need to increase the intake of fruits and vegetables, as consuming natural foods is critically important.

Importantly, he also emphasized at least making sure that you have a lipid panel to check your cholesterol levels.

"We are assuming that you are staying healthy and not smoking. Checking blood pressure, it depends on your age, but at least once a year, checking your lipid panel would be critically important," Dr. Sripal told HealthandMe.

As a cardiologist, he shared that to boost heart health, the key is

• to make sure that you lead a healthy lifestyle,
• stay away from smoking,
• increase physical activity,
• reduce stress.

"I mean, it’s easier said than done, but I think it is critically important to reduce stress," he said.

"Pollution is one factor, and I think we can all do our part to make sure that we don’t contribute more to environmental pollution," he noted.

 

This is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for medicines, exercises and so on.   

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Understanding and Preventing Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a medical condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein, typically in the legs. This can lead to pain, swelling, and in severe cases, can cause clots to break free and travel to vital organs, such as the lungs, leading to life-threatening complications. Recognizing the factors that increase the risk of DVT and adopting preventive measures is crucial for maintaining vascular health.

Risk Factors for DVT 

 

Here are the factors that can elevate your risk of developing DVT

 

 Previous Blood Clot: 

Individuals who have experienced DVT are at a heightened risk of recurrence.

 

Family History: 

 A genetic predisposition to DVT is significant. The risk is further amplified if both parents have a history of the condition. 

 

Age: 

The likelihood of DVT increases with age, particularly for those over 40. 

 

Prolonged Immobility:  

Extended periods of immobility, such as bed rest due to hospitalization or long-duration flights, can significantly increase the risk of DVT. When muscles are not active, blood flow in the deep veins of the legs slows down, making it easier for clots to form. This is why it's crucial to take breaks, move around, and stretch regularly during prolonged sitting or when confined to a bed or chair for extended periods. 

 

Gender and Age: 

Men aged between 45 and 60 are slightly more susceptible to DVT. However, women's risk may increase during pregnancy due to hormonal changes. 

 

Genetic Factors: 

Genetic predispositions play a significant role in the risk of developing DVT. Conditions such as Factor V Leiden mutation increase the blood's tendency to clot. While a single genetic factor may not cause DVT on its own, in combination with other risks, it can significantly increase the likelihood of clot formation. Knowing family history and discussing genetic testing with a healthcare provider can help assess and manage this risk. 

 

 Pregnancy and Hormone Therapy: 

Elevated estrogen levels during pregnancy or from hormone-based medications can increase clotting risk. Apart from pregnancy, other conditions and medications that alter hormone levels can also elevate DVT risk. This includes hormone replacement therapy and certain types of birth control. The increased estrogen can make the blood more prone to clotting. It's essential for individuals undergoing these treatments to consult with their healthcare providers about their specific risk and possible preventive measures. 

 

 Clotting Disorders: 

Inherent blood clotting disorders can lead to abnormally thick blood.

Obesity: 

Obesity is a significant risk factor for DVT. Excess weight, especially around the abdomen, can exert additional pressure on the veins in the pelvis and legs, impeding blood flow back to the heart. This can lead to blood pooling and clot formation. Furthermore, obesity alters the chemical composition of the blood, increasing its propensity to clot. Managing weight through diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of DVT and improve overall health. 

 

Health Conditions:  

Diseases like heart disease, lung disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and cancer can elevate DVT risk. 

 

Injury or Surgery:  

Physical trauma, such as a bone fracture or muscle injury, can damage blood vessels and lead to clot formation. Similarly, surgeries, particularly those involving the abdomen, pelvis, hip, or legs, can increase the risk of DVT due to immobility during recovery and potential damage to blood vessels. Taking preventive measures, such as using compression stockings or medication for blood thinning as recommended by healthcare providers, can help reduce this risk. 

 

Chronic diseases:  

Certain chronic conditions, such as heart disease, cancer, and inflammatory bowel disease, can increase the risk of DVT. These diseases can alter blood flow, contribute to inflammation, and affect the blood's ability to clot. For instance, cancer and its treatments can increase clotting factors in the blood, while heart disease can lead to reduced mobility and blood flow. Managing these conditions with the guidance of healthcare professionals is crucial for minimizing DVT risk. 

 

Inflammatory Diseases: Conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) not only disrupt the digestive tract but also contribute to a systemic inflammatory response. This state of heightened inflammation can increase the risk of blood clot formation. Managing inflammation through appropriate treatments and lifestyle changes is crucial.

Strategies to Lower DVT Risk 

While some risk factors for DVT cannot be modified, several strategies can help mitigate the risk: 

 

Avoid Prolonged Immobility: 

Stand, stretch, or walk at least every 2 hours. Perform simple leg exercises even while seated. If you work at a desk or engage in activities that require sitting for extended periods, integrate short breaks into your routine. Use a timer as a reminder to stand up or stretch every hour. Even minimal movements, such as ankle circles or foot pumps, can stimulate blood flow in your legs.

Post-Surgery Mobility: 

After surgery, particularly operations involving the abdomen, pelvis, hip, or legs, it's crucial to start moving as soon as medically advised. Gentle exercises, like ankle pumps, knee bends, and leg lifts, can be performed even in bed. These movements help in maintaining circulation and preventing blood clots. 

 

Medical Consultation:  

Discuss with a healthcare provider about the potential need for blood thinners or compression stockings if at high risk. 

 

Travel Precautions: During long flights or car rides, make it a point to stand or walk around every couple of hours. Choose seats that offer more legroom when possible, and perform seated exercises like foot lifts or knee bends. Wearing loose, comfortable clothing and staying hydrated are essential, while avoiding alcohol and caffeine, which can lead to dehydration. 

 

Stay Active: 

Regular physical activity is beneficial for overall health and plays a key role in preventing DVT. Activities like walking, swimming, or cycling improve circulation and vein health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Even those with limited mobility can find suitable exercises to keep blood flowing efficiently. 

 

Health Management:  

Addressing obesity, quitting smoking, and managing chronic diseases are crucial steps in reducing DVT risk. 

 

Lifestyle Adjustments: 

For individuals who are overweight, losing weight can significantly reduce the pressure on veins in the legs and improve blood flow. Quitting smoking is also crucial, as smoking affects blood circulation and increases the risk of clotting. Managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease through medication, diet, and exercise is vital in reducing the risk of DVT. 

 

Proactive Health Checks:  

For those with a high risk of DVT, regular check-ups and screenings can be lifesaving. This includes monitoring for any signs of clotting disorders, reviewing medication impacts, and assessing the need for preventive measures like compression garments or anticoagulants.

This is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for medicines, exercises and so on.   

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https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com. feel free to view for easy, simple and healthy recipes    
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Concerned About Liver Cirrhosis? You Need to Read This

Did you know that the largest internal organ you've got inside of you is your liver? It's roughly the size of a football and can weigh up to three pounds in all. It's responsible for getting rid of plenty of nasty toxins from your body, which is why it's really important to take care of it. One major complication that can occur in the liver is cirrhosis. While it currently has no known cure, there are plenty of natural and clinical procedures that can limit the risk of liver failure and additional complications. Keep reading to find out all about them.

 1. What is cirrhosis?

Cirrhosis is a progressive disease where scar tissue is developed in the liver. It results in a dysfunction which ends up impacting essential function like hormone levels, the digestion of essential nutrients, blood flow, and the removal of waste products from the body. 

 

Alcohol abuse, certain viruses (such as hepatitis), and having a history of fatty liver disease are the most common causes of cirrhosis. Other risk factors include genetics, poor dietary choices, and dangerously high levels of bad cholesterol. 

 

Cirrhosis caused the liver to deteriorate over time, and once it reaches its more advanced stages liver failure or liver cancer might develop. At such a stage, a liver transplant is usually the only option left, which is why it's important to act as quickly as possible and take proper care of your liver throughout your life.

What Are the Symptoms of Cirrhosis?

 

 

Cirrhosis is typically accompanied by quite a number of symptoms including: 

 

• Appetite loss 

 

• Lack of energy 

 

• Symptoms of jaundice 

 

• Swollen ankles or legs 

 

• Itchy skin 

 

• Dark-colored urine 

 

• Pale or tar-colored stool 

 

• Bruising easily 

 

• Unexplained weight changes 

 

• Chronic fatigue syndrome 

 

• Digestive issues, such as vomiting, nausea, cramps or abdominal pain 

 

• Cognitive issues such as disorientation, mood swings, confusion or personality changes

Liver Cirrhosis Complications

Cirrhosis goes through a number of stages before entering the advanced and final stage. Early on, sufferers may experience symptoms like skin changes, decreased levels of energy, nutrient deficiencies, and swelling. As the disease progresses, many of the other symptoms mentioned above will start to manifest themselves. Once cirrhosis enters an advanced stage, some of these complications may arise: 

 

• Bile duct stones 

 

• Gallstones 

 

• Type 2 diabetes 

 

• Insulin resistance 

 

• A weakened immune system 

 

• An increased risk of lung and kidney failure 

 

• Sensitivity to certain drugs 

 

• A greatly increased risk of liver cancer 

 

• Metabolic bone diseases 

 

• Hepatic encephalopathy 

 

• Various issues with the spleen 

 

• Varices 

 

• Ascites 

 

• Edema 

 

• Portal hypertension

What Causes Cirrhosis?

There are various factors that can lead to the development of cirrhosis, which can stem from both your own lifestyle and habits, as well as from external and environmental factors. The most common risk factors for cirrhosis of the liver include: 

 

• Drinking too much alcohol 

 

• Smoking 

 

• Drug abuse 

 

• Consuming a poor diet 

 

• Having a history of fatty liver disease, diabetes or metabolic syndrome 

 

• Being obese 

 

• High triglyceride levels 

 

• High levels of bad cholesterol 

 

• Genetic factors 

 

• Constant exposure to toxins or pollutants 

 

• Serious infections or viruses

 

Treating Cirrhosis Conventionally

Conventional treatment for cirrhosis will ultimately depend on what initially caused it, as well as how far the disease has progressed. Doctors will typically combine a number of different treatments including both drugs and major lifestyle changes. Unfortunately, there is no textbook cure for this disease, yet these techniques have been found to be the most effective: 

 

• Eliminating processed food from your diet 

 

• Reducing your salt intake 

 

• Increasing your nutrient intake 

 

• Eliminating drug and alcohol intake 

 

• Using diuretics to control ascites and edema 

 

• Controlling cholesterol levels 

 

• Losing weight 

 

• Cognitive therapy 

 

• Using laxatives to improve elimination of toxins 

 

• Using steroids and antiviral medication if the cause is hepatitis 

 

• Getting a liver transplant in the most severe cases 

 

Dealing With Cirrhosis Naturally 

 

1. Cleansing the Liver Regularly

To cleanse your liver, try to eat as much as you can of the following: 

 

• citrus fruits 

 

• ginger 

 

• dark green leafy vegetables 

 

• vegetable juices 

 

• raw or steamed vegetables 

 

• bananas, avocados, and sweet potatoes 

 

• turmeric 

 

• milk thistle seeds 

 

• Spirulina, chlorella, and wheatgrass 

 

• burdock root 

 

• dandelion root tea 

 

• black seed oil 

 

• probiotics 

 

• lemon juice 

 

• coconut oil 

 

• extra virgin olive oil 

 

• raw apple cider vinegar 

 

 

Make sure to avoid these foods at all times if suffering from cirrhosis: 

 

 • fried food 

 

• processed food 

 

• very spicy food 

 

• sugar 

 

• refined carbohydrates, especially those containing gluten 

 

• alcohol 

 

• excessive amounts of caffeine 

 

• rich and complex dishes 

 

 

 

2. Consume an Anti-Inflammatory and Organic Diet

The key to maintaining a healthy and functioning liver is to consume plenty of organic vegetables with most meals. Ideally, you should aim to consume around 4 or 5 servings of fresh, organic vegetables each day. If this seems like too much, then you might want to consider juicing them instead. In order to put the least amount of strain on your liver as possible, you should limit the saturated fats you eat to only high-quality cage-free, free-range or grass-fed animal products. This is because animals bred in captivity have been found to store a lot more toxins in their fat than is desirable. As a general rule, the less foods that come out of packaging, the safer your liver should be. Here are some of the best liver-supporting vegetables you can eat: 

 

• broccoli 

 

• cauliflower 

 

• celery 

 

• cabbage 

 

• Brussels sprouts 

 

• kale 

 

• spinach 

 

• dandelion 

 

• watercress 

 

• asparagus 

 

• cucumber 

 

• beetroot 

 

• carrot 

 

• herbs, such as basil, mint, parsley, and cilantro  

 

 

3. Use Natural Supplements

Plenty of supplements can help produce proper enzymes and bile, reduce intestinal gas, lower inflammation, and sooth the digestive system. Here are some of the most powerful ones: 

 

• Turmeric - this potent anti-inflammatory spice will support your liver's metabolism by providing you with a decent blood-sugar balance. It can also help aid your digestive tract. 

 

• Milk thistle - it helps to get rid of a buildup of alcohol, pollutants, and heavy metals. 

 

• Probiotics - these can help boost your liver health by assisting with its detoxification and metabolism. 

 

• Multivitamins - vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin B-6 are particularly the most essential when it comes to protecting the liver. 

 

• Potassium - This mineral is extremely beneficial since it lowers your cholesterol, triglyceride levels, and systolic blood pressure.

4. Check the Medication You're TakingCirrhosis guide

Quite a significant number of prescription medications can end up damaging your liver as an unwanted side effect. The worst offenders have been found to be hormone replacement drugs and birth control pills, however many other drugs can also put quite a lot of unnecessary strain on your liver, too. 

 

Unfortunately, research has shown that a large number of prescription medications are being over-prescribed, are being mixed with other drugs in a dangerous way, or are taken in an incorrect manner. If you are on medication, then we'd recommend learning how they can adversely affect your liver, and to carefully follow dosage instructions when taking them. It would also be a good idea to ask a healthcare professional if there are any natural remedies that they can be replaced with.

 

Precautions to Take When Treating Cirrhosis

If you spot any warning signs of liver damage, make sure to get in touch with a doctor as soon as possible, since stopping liver damage before the disease advances will greatly improve your quality of life and chances of survival. Of course, it's good to keep in mind that once symptoms begin to appear, it is likely that the condition has already been present for some time, which is all the more reason to get yourself checked immediately.

This is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for medicines, exercises and so on.   

https://gscrochetdesigns.blogspot.com. one can see my crochet creations  
https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com. feel free to view for easy, simple and healthy recipes    
https://kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com. for info on knee replacement
https://cancersupportindia.blogspot.com  for infor on cancer and health related topics
https://GSiyers home remedies.blogspot.com   is the latest addition to my blogs. I'm going to add posts there, do give me your valuable feed back on my blogs. Thanks a lot, take care, be healthy and be happy.

Celiac disease shares many genetic factors with T1Diabetes

NIDDK study continues to look at possible factors that lead to the development of the diseases in children.

 New results and information surrounding potential "triggers" of the autoimmune process leading to type 1 diabetes (T1D) and how they interact with genetic factors in children at-risk for developing the disease were highlighted in the "Update from the TEDDY Study" symposium today at the American Diabetes Association's® (ADA's) 80th Virtual Scientific Sessions. Similar evidence for celiac disease is also being accumulated through the large international study program. The data The Environmental Determinants of Diabetes in the Young (TEDDY) study has collected prospectively since 2004 will be utilized in new clinical trials to prevent these autoimmune diseases that jointly affect more than 3% of the general population.

TEDDY is an international multi-center trial researching the potential causes T1D in children. The study is funded by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). T1D occurs when the beta cells of the pancreas that normally make insulin are destroyed by the body's own immune system. When the beta cells are destroyed, the body cannot make insulin and maintain normal blood sugar levels.

Children who have T1D have certain types of genes, but not all children who have those genes develop diabetes. Something from the environment "triggers" the immune destruction of the beta cells. TEDDY is aiming to discover viruses and nutritional factors that interact with genes to "trigger" immune destruction of the beta cells, marked by the appearance of islet autoantibodies. The study enrolls infants identified as "at-risk" for developing T1D and follows them for 15 years to look for the appearance of various beta-cell autoantibodies and diabetes. TEDDY has also studied biomarkers that can predict faster or slower progression to diabetes after the autoimmune destruction has begun.

"An interesting finding from TEDDY has been how early the autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing cells begins – often in the initial two years of life," said study TEDDY co-chair Marian Rewers, MD, PhD, a professor of pediatrics and medicine and executive director of the Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. "There appear to be two subtypes of T1D that differ by genetic factors and immune phenotypes. Metabolomic biomarkers may offer clues to the subtypes and whether a child develops T1D. Interestingly, HbA1c has very different predictive characteristics for progression to clinical diabetes in children with islet autoantibodies, compared to adults with risk factors for type 1 diabetes."

 Additional key updates from the study group include:

 Persistent presence of enterovirus B species in a child's stool predicts development of islet autoimmunity, especially the earlier subtype characterized by the presence of autoantibodies to insulin. 

There are also subtle differences in the composition and function of gut microbiome in children who develop islet autoantibodies, compared to controls. Early use of probiotics may decrease the risk, while use of antibiotics was not related to islet or celiac autoimmunity. 

TEDDY has also found potentially beneficial effects of vitamin D, vitamin C, or a diet rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, though these observations need to be confirmed in randomized clinical trials. 

Celiac disease, another autoimmune condition, shares many genetic factors with T1D, noted Dr. Rewers. TEDDY investigators follow study participants for both T1D and celiac disease in an attempt to determine why some children with high-risk genes develop T1D or celiac disease, while most remain disease-free. This information will be used to try to prevent both diabetes and celiac disease in children. Recently reported TEDDY research showed an association between gluten consumption in the early years of childhood and an increased risk of celiac disease among genetically predisposed children.

 "While T1D and celiac disease share a lot of genetic 

characteristics, there are intriguing differences in the ways these 

diseases develop and progress," added Dr. Rewers. "TEDDY is 

contributing exciting clues for design of future trials to prevent 

both T1D and celiac disease."

This is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for medicines, exercises and so on.     

https://gscrochetdesigns.blogspot.com. one can see my crochet creations  
https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com. feel free to view for easy, simple and healthy recipes    
https://kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com. for info on knee replacement