Coronary artery disease in South Asians: an emerging risk group

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide and was responsible for 7.2 million deaths in 2003. Various studies have pointed out that South Asians have a higher prevalence of CAD as compared with other ethnicities. South Asians may have a genetic predisposition to CAD; however, environmental, nutritional, and lifestyle factors may also be responsible. South Asians have a much higher prevalence of metabolic syndrome, diabetes, insulin resistance (and resultant hyperinsulinemia), central obesity, dyslipidemias (lower high-density lipoprotein, increased lipoprotein[a], higher triglyceride levels), increased thrombotic tendency (increased plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 and decreased tissue plasminogen activator levels), decreased levels of physical activity, and low birth weights ("fetal origins hypothesis"). In addition, the dietary indiscretions and sedentary lifestyle practiced by most South Asians puts them at a higher risk. A multidisciplinary approach involving the population at risk, healthcare personnel, and the government is required to diminish the incidence. Educational programs regarding the genetic predisposition as well as risk factors for CAD, physical activity, and dietary modifications need to be encouraged. There is a need for implementation of newer guidelines as well as a lower threshold for initiating therapeutic interventions in this population. Mass media should be involved to bring about behavioral changes, and these changes should be reinforced at the physician's level.