Triglycerides Threaten India

It is estimated that over a third of children in India in the age group of 5 to 9 could be living with high triglycerides, a type of blood fat linked to increased risk of heart disease in the long run, with West Bengal having the highest prevalence rate among the states/UTs at 67 per cent, followed by Sikkim (64 per cent), Assam (57 per cent), Nagaland (55 per cent), and Jammu and Kashmir (50 per cent), while Kerala (16.6 per cent) and Maharashtra (19.1 per cent) reported the lowest prevalence. This was revealed in a report released by the central government last week, highlighting the importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle. The findings are alarming but not surprising, given the changes in lifestyle that have led to increased consumption of processed and fast foods. It came a few months after health experts warned that the country’s populace could be vulnerable to various life-threatening diseases if the increasing consumption of junk foods and sugar-sweetened beverages is not checked.

What is surprising, however, is the inclusion of three north-eastern states -- Sikkim, Assam and Nagaland – in the top states with high triglyceride levels, as fast food culture was introduced relatively late to the region, as was development. The region is also being dubbed as a traditional hub for organic food, with Sikkim becoming India's first fully organic state in 2016, more than 12 years after launching the Sikkim Organic Mission to eliminate chemical fertilisers and pesticides from farmland and to promote healthy living. The government of Nagaland also has been aggressively promoting organic farming, highlighting its environmental and health benefits. Therefore, the high prevalence of triglycerides in this region is puzzling and warrants serious investigation.

Why do triglycerides matter? Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the blood that serve as a primary source of energy and store extra calories from food intake. As per health experts, it is essential for health, but high triglycerides can thicken the artery walls, which can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, pancreatitis and cardiovascular issues. While most cases could be inherited from parents, experts say unhealthy food habits can aggravate it. The responsibility lies with parents to promote a healthy lifestyle for their children and manage high triglyceride levels. This can be achieved by encouraging a balanced diet, limiting processed foods and screen time, and promoting engaging activities. Parents should also lead by example. Additionally, it is essential for relevant authorities and state governments to identify the factors contributing to this concerning health trend and address them promptly.