Study reveals India in need of its own lipid guidelines

In a cross-sectional physician survey, the researchers found that every physician had their self-reported perspectives on managing an abnormal amount of lipids in the blood. The survey included 404 physicians. The study, which was published in Lipids in Health and Disease's latest edition, is said to be the first survey in India to understand lipid management practices followed by the physicians. Currently, there are no uniformly accepted Indian guidelines

India needs its own lipid guidelines, says a latest study published in a medical journal. In a cross-sectional physician survey, the researchers found that every physician had their self-reported perspectives on managing an abnormal amount of lipids in the blood.

The survey which was anchored by department of cardiology of Hero DMC Heart Institute, Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana and MGM New Bombay Hospital, included 404 physicians.

The study which was published in Lipids in Health and Disease’s latest edition, is said to be the first survey in India to understand lipid management practices followed by the physicians. Currently, there are no uniformly accepted Indian guidelines.

Agreeing that the current lipid guidelines in India are ambiguous, Dr Kaushal Chhatrapati, Interventional Cardiologist, Saifee Hospital said, “This is leading to some patients’ being either over treated or under treated.”

“Lipids are all important in preventing coronary artery disease. Statins work wonders in this regard. Unfortunately, I find statins are prescribed far less than indicated and in doses which are too low. This would definitely pace the way for a healthier tomorrow,” added Dr Chhatrapati.

Doctors say that irregular lipid is one of the major causes of heart complications. “Lipids are central players in coronary atherosclerosis, which is responsible for most of if not all heart attacks. There is a dire need for sensitising both the physician and the patient about the importance of a strict lipid control,” said Dr Chhatrapati.

While speaking to My Medical Mantra, Dr Sudhir Pillai, Cardiologist at PD Hinduja Hospital said dietary advice can be given in many cases before starting medication for lipid management.

“I see many of my patients being over treated. Lot of combination of drugs are used which is unnecessary. A detailed study of lipid profile has to be done along with inflammatory markers before deciding lipid management,” said Dr Pillai.

He also added that one has to be careful about the potential complications of muscle and kidney injury while prescribing statin combination tablets.