Why Are Indians At Risk For Metabolic Syndrome?

The Asian Indian population faces an elevated risk of metabolic syndrome due to a combination of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors.

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of cardiovascular risk factors that significantly increase the likelihood of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and related complications. Metabolic syndrome is a global health concern, and certain populations exhibit a greater susceptibility to its development. Among these, the Asian Indian population has gained attention due to their elevated risk. Here is an examination of the risk factors contributing to the higher prevalence of metabolic syndrome in this population.

Genetic Factors:

  • Genetic Variations Associated with Insulin Resistance
    • Cite: Yajnik CS et al. (2002). Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice.
  • Genetic Predisposition to Abnormal Lipid Profiles
    • Cite: Chandalia M et al. (2007). Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

Obesity and Body Composition:

  • Central Obesity and Abdominal Fat Accumulation
    • Cite: Misra A et al. (2019). Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism.
  • BMI-Independent Obesity and Insulin Resistance
    • Cite: Snehalatha C et al. (2003). Diabetologia.

Insulin Resistance and Glucose Dysregulation:

  • Insulin Resistance in Lean Asian Indians
    • Cite: Mohan V et al. (2007). Diabetes Care.
  • Early Onset of Glucose Dysregulation
    • Cite: Ramachandran A et al. (2007). Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice.

Lipid Abnormalities:

  • Elevated Triglyceride Levels and Low HDL Cholesterol
    • Cite: Gupta R et al. (2017). Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

Dietary Patterns:

  • High Carbohydrate Diets and Insulin Resistance
    • Cite: Radhika G et al. (2011). The British Journal of Nutrition.
  • Role of Refined Carbohydrates and Sugars
    • Cite: Misra A et al. (2018). Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity.

Sedentary Lifestyle:

  • Urbanization and Decreased Physical Activity
    • Cite: Anjana RM et al. (2014). Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice.

Socioeconomic and Cultural Factors:

  • Socioeconomic Inequalities and Metabolic Syndrome
    • Cite: Reddy KS et al. (2016). The Lancet.
  • Cultural Influences on Dietary Habits
    • Cite: Popkin BM et al. (2012). The Lancet.

Prevention and Management:

  • Health Promotion and Awareness Campaigns
    • Cite: Mohan V et al. (2018). Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism.
  • Lifestyle Modifications and Public Health Initiatives
    • Cite: Ramachandran A et al. (2018). Indian Heart Journal.