Archive · 20 Jul 2026
ICMR Study Reveals Alarming Cholesterol Crisis in India
A big study in India found that almost 9 out of 10 adults have unhealthy fat levels in their blood.
This is called dyslipidemia.
It's a serious problem because it can lead to heart disease.
The study shows that many people, even those who look healthy, are at risk.
The main issue is low levels of good cholesterol (HDL).
This problem is common in both men and women, but women have it more.
It's also more common in cities, but rural areas are affected too.
The study says that people should start checking their cholesterol earlier and make lifestyle changes to stay healthy.
This includes eating better, exercising, and avoiding bad habits like smoking.
87.3% of Indian adults have at least one abnormal lipid level, according to an ICMR study.
Low HDL (good cholesterol) is the most common abnormality, followed by high LDL (bad cholesterol), high triglycerides, and high total cholesterol.
Dyslipidemia is prevalent across all age groups but peaks between 30 and 39 years.
Women have a higher prevalence of dyslipidemia compared to men.
Urban residents are more affected, but rural areas also show significant prevalence.
- Who
- Indian adults, particularly those aged 30-39 years
- What
- A high prevalence of dyslipidemia (abnormal lipid levels) affecting 87.3% of Indian adults
- When
- The study was conducted as part of the ICMR-INDIAB survey
- Where
- Across all states and Union Territories in India
- Why
- Due to a combination of genetic predisposition and lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and tobacco use
Lifestyle Changes
Genetic Predisposition
Causes of Dyslipidemia
Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and tobacco use significantly contribute to dyslipidemia.
Genetic Predisposition
Genetic predisposition plays a major role in the high prevalence of dyslipidemia among Indians.
- Study Conducted By
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
- Sample Size
- 23,665 adults
- Prevalence of Dyslipidemia
- 87.3%
- Most Common Abnormality
- Low HDL (Good Cholesterol)
- Age Group with Highest Prevalence
- 30-39 years
- Gender with Higher Burden
- Women
- Urban vs. Rural Prevalence
- Higher in urban areas but significant in rural areas as well