Most Indians know their cholesterol numbers, but very few know their personal LDL-C target.
Cardiologist explains why one size doesn’t fit all when it comes to heart health.
When 34-year-old Vikram Desai* received his annual health check-up results, his cholesterol
numbers fell within standard reference limits. Fit and active, he assumed all was well. It was
only after discussing the report with his doctor that he understood an important distinction:
standard lab ranges provide a general baseline, but individual risk factors—like family history
or diabetes—determine a person’s true Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDL-C) goal.
Vikram’s story reflects a growing reality across urban India. High cholesterol is responsible
for 7.8% of deaths in India, with 31% of the population showing elevated cholesterol levels. 1 , 2
Compared to Western populations, Indians develop heart disease 10 to 15 years earlier. 3
Yet, while many people know their overall cholesterol number, very few know their personal
LDL-C target.
The Silent Nature of LDL-C
High LDL-C is often called a “silent killer” because it works without visible symptoms, slowly
causing fat deposits (plaque) in the arteries. This condition, known as atherosclerosis, can
block blood flow to vital organs, contributing to heart attacks, strokes, and peripheral artery
disease. Being young, physically active, or maintaining a healthy weight does not mean your
LDL-C is in the desired range.
Personalized Targets for LDL Cholesterol Management
To maintain LDL cholesterol levels, it is necessary to get tested at an early age. The
Cardiology Society of India (CSI) recommends lipid profile checkups starting at age 18. Early
checkups help in finding problems before they become serious. Even people who seem
healthy may have high LDL-C, so regular testing is important.
Dr. Aravind Duruvasal MD , DM, Interventional Cardiologist at Prashanth Hospitals
Velachery, Chennai says, “Early detection of elevated LDL-C is an important first step, but
managing cholesterol is not simply about achieving a particular number. LDL-C goals are
individualised and depend on a person’s overall cardiovascular risk, including factors such
as age, family history, diabetes, hypertension and other health conditions. Understanding
your personal LDL-C target and working towards maintaining it within the recommended
range is essential. Regular monitoring, adherence to medical advice and being informed
about your health can help individuals take a proactive approach to managing cholesterol
and protecting their heart health”.
Taking Charge of Your Heart Journey
Take charge of your heart health by asking your doctor three key questions at your next
check-up:
- What is my LDL-C today?
- What is my personal LDL-C goal?
- Am I at goal, and if not, what are my options?
While lifestyle modifications such as a healthy diet, stress management, and regular
exercise support overall heart health, they may not be sufficient on their own to lower LDL-C
to your personal goal. Lipid-lowering therapy is often necessary and represents a long-term
commitment rather than a short-term fix.