Dyslipidemia in Asian Indians: determinants and significance

Data suggest that lipid fractions other than total cholesterol, i.e. serum triglycerides (TG) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol are important for the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. A combination of hypertriglyceridemia, low levels of HDL-cholesterol and high levels of small dense low-density lipoprotein, termed as "atherogenic dyslipidemia', is particularly seen in Asian Indians. Although precise reason for such dyslipidemia is unknown, genetic predisposition and characteristic body composition (excess truncal subcutaneous fat and intraabdominal fat) may be important contributors. A common interface between such body composition and dyslipidemia in Asian Indians is high tendency to develop insulin resistance, more than the other ethnic groups. The general guidelines for the management of dyslipidemia in Asian Indians should be according to National Cholesterol Education Program, Adult Treatment Panel III. However, optimal management requires consideration of ethnic-specific dietary, lifestyle and management factors to formulate individual treatment guidelines.