Unemployment and High Blood Sugar Levels Increase Heart Disease Risk in India, Says ICMR Study

Overview:

The ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research) spearheaded a significant study to assess the 10-year risk of developing cardiovascular diseases (CVD) among adults in India. This study analyzed nearly 4,500 individuals aged between 40 and 69 years, providing crucial insights into the risk factors contributing to heart diseases in the country.

Key Findings:

Unemployment and High Blood Sugar: The study found that unemployed individuals are at a substantially higher risk of developing heart diseases compared to those who are employed or homemakers. Furthermore, participants with high blood sugar levels were also found to be at a significantly higher risk. Among women with high blood sugar, the risk of developing heart conditions over 10 years increased by 85%, while men faced a 77% higher risk.
Impact of Obesity: Obesity emerged as another critical risk factor, with obese women having a 71% higher chance of developing heart diseases, compared to a 55% increased risk in obese men.
Urban vs. Rural Risk: The study highlighted a disparity between urban and rural populations, with urban residents showing a higher probability of developing CVD. Around 17.5% of urban participants had a greater than 10% risk of developing heart disease, compared to 13.8% of rural residents. Notably, urban women participants had an 86% higher probability of elevated 10-year CVD risk compared to their rural counterparts.

Research Methodology:

The data for this study was collected through comprehensive surveys and questionnaires, including those developed by the World Health Organisation (WHO), to gauge physical activity levels and other health indicators. The study aimed to fill a gap in national estimates by using non-laboratory-based WHO charts, providing a more holistic view of cardiovascular risks across different demographics in India.

Implications:

This study underscores the need for targeted health interventions, particularly focusing on unemployed individuals and those with high blood sugar levels. Additionally, the findings call for enhanced public health strategies to address obesity and urban lifestyle-related risks, aiming to reduce the overall burden of cardiovascular diseases in India.