By Dr. Anitha, Internal Medicine Specialist, Ayra Health Care, Manikonda
High cholesterol is no longer just an “older person’s problem.”
In India, many young adults in their 20s and 30s are being diagnosed with high cholesterol. The worrying part is that high cholesterol often has no symptoms, but silently increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other heart diseases at an early age.
At Ayra Health Care, Manikonda, we regularly see young patients with high cholesterol who are surprised by their reports—because they “felt healthy.” This is why awareness and early testing are so important.
Why Are Young Indians More at Risk?
Genetics (Family History)
South Asians, including Indians, naturally have a higher risk of cholesterol problems.
Conditions like familial hypercholesterolemia cause very high cholesterol from an early age.
Dietary Habits
High consumption of fried foods, sweets, ghee, and refined carbs (rice, maida-based snacks).
Growing fast-food culture among young professionals and students.
Lifestyle Factors
Sedentary desk jobs, less exercise, long screen time, and irregular sleep.
Rising obesity among urban youth.
Other Health Risks
Early-onset diabetes, smoking, alcohol consumption, and stress further worsen cholesterol balance. Research in India (ICMR–INDIAB & AIIMS–CURES studies) shows that over 70% of Indian adults have abnormal cholesterol levels—and this includes young adults.
Why High Cholesterol Is Dangerous
High cholesterol does not cause pain or discomfort. But over time, it leads to:
Narrowing of arteries (atherosclerosis)
- Increased risk of heart attack in the 30s or 40s
- Stroke or paralysis
- Sudden cardiac arrest
When Should Young Adults Get Tested?
From age 20 onwards, everyone should get a cholesterol check (lipid profile).
- More frequent testing if you have:
- Family history of early heart disease
- Diabetes, obesity, or thyroid problems
- Smoking or alcohol habits
- High blood pressure
At Ayra Health Care, Manikonda, we offer affordable preventive health check-ups, including cholesterol testing, to help you track your heart health.
How to Lower Cholesterol Naturally
Healthy Eating
Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lentils.
- Add nuts, seeds, and fish (rich in omega-3).
- Use oils like groundnut, mustard, or olive oil in moderation.
- Avoid fried foods, bakery items, and sugary drinks.
Exercise Regularly
At least 30 minutes of brisk walking, jogging, or cycling daily.
- Yoga and pranayama can help reduce stress and improve heart health.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
- For Indians, aim for a BMI under 23. Even small weight loss helps improve cholesterol.
Quit Smoking & Limit Alcohol
- Tobacco lowers good cholesterol (HDL) and worsens heart risk.
- Alcohol increases triglycerides.
Medications When Needed
- If cholesterol is very high, especially due to genetics, lifestyle changes may not be enough.
- Your doctor may prescribe statins or other medicines to control cholesterol safely.
Take Away
High cholesterol in young Indians is a silent but serious health issue. Don’t wait for symptoms—because cholesterol damage begins early. A simple test and lifestyle changes can protect you from heart disease in the future.
At Ayra Health Care, Manikonda, we are committed to helping young adults stay heart-healthy with early screening, expert advice, and personalised treatment plans.
FAQs
1. Can high cholesterol affect me if I’m slim? Yes. Even individuals with a slim physique can have high cholesterol due to genetic or dietary factors.
2. How often should I check my cholesterol? Every 3–5 years if healthy, more often if you have risk factors.
3. Can I eat eggs if I have high cholesterol? Yes, but in moderation. The main concern is fried foods, red meat, and processed snacks—not occasional eggs.
4. Is medicine lifelong if I start cholesterol tablets? Not always. Some patients need them long-term, but many can manage cholesterol with lifestyle changes if caught early.
Visit Us at Ayra Health Care, Manikonda
If you are in your 20s or 30s and haven’t had your cholesterol checked, now is the time. At Ayra Health Care, Manikonda, we provide:
- Preventive health check-ups
- Accurate cholesterol testing
- Lifestyle counseling
- Medical management when required
About Dr. Anitha Adluri– Ayra Health Care, Hyderabad
Dr. Anitha Adluri is one of the best general physicians in Hyderabad, with over 22 years of experience in Internal Medicine and Diabetology. She is highly regarded as a family-friendly physician and is recognised among the top physicians in Hyderabad. Her areas of expertise include the management of fevers, infections, urinary tract infections, diabetes, thyroid disorders, hypertension, cholesterol problems, obesity, HIV, typhoid, dengue, pneumonia, asthma, allergies, vitamin deficiencies, immune system disorders, rheumatology conditions, and women’s health issues such as PCOD, Anemia, vitamin deficiency, Autoimmune diseases, Fibromyalgia
Dr. Anitha focuses on accurate diagnosis, preventive care, and holistic treatment, ensuring long-term wellness for her patients. Fluent in English, Telugu, and Hindi, she is approachable and caring, making her a trusted physician for families across the city.
Why Choose Ayra Health Care? Experienced and top-rated doctors in Hyderabad. Family-friendly environment with personalised attention. Comprehensive care in General Medicine, Diabetes, and Orthopaedics. Focus on prevention, early diagnosis, and holistic management. Patient education and guidance for long-term wellness.
At Ayra Health Care, our mission is to provide advanced medical care with compassion, trust, and excellence. Whether you are seeking a general physician in Hyderabad for overall health, diabetes, or infections, or a top orthopedic doctor in Hyderabad for bone and joint problems, our doctors are here to support you at every step.