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Prevalence of hyperhomocysteinemia in healthy Indian doctors

Sandesh P Kamdi1, Prashant Palkar

  • 1Medical Advisor, Akumentis Healthcare Ltd., 204, Second floor, G. Corp Tech Park, Kasarvadavali, Near Hyper City, Ghodbunder Road, Thane (W), 400 615, Maharashtra, India.

Bioinformation
|March 23, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Hyperhomocysteinemia, a risk factor for vascular diseases, is highly prevalent in healthy Indian doctors, affecting 92.85% of men and 81.60% of women. This high prevalence suggests a future risk for various pathologies in this population.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Health
  • Metabolic Disorders
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Hyperhomocysteinemia is a recognized risk factor for numerous vascular diseases.
  • The prevalence of hyperhomocysteinemia increases with age.
  • Understanding prevalence in specific populations is crucial for targeted health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of hyperhomocysteinemia in a healthy, upper socio-economic class population in India.
  • To assess gender-specific differences in total homocysteine (tHcy) levels.
  • To identify potential future vascular disease risks within the studied cohort.

Main Methods:

  • Cross-sectional study involving 1243 healthy Indian doctors (906 men, 337 women) across different age groups.
  • Measurement of total homocysteine (tHcy) concentration in all participants.
  • Application of the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III) criteria for defining hyperhomocysteinemia.

Main Results:

  • A very high prevalence of hyperhomocysteinemia was observed: 92.85% in men (tHcy >11.4 µmol/L) and 81.60% in women (tHcy >10.4 µmol/L).
  • Mean tHcy concentration was significantly higher in men (21.96 ± 0.38 µmol/L) compared to women (15.90 ± 0.39 µmol/L) (P<0.0001).
  • The observed prevalence indicates a substantial risk for future pathologies in this population.

Conclusions:

  • The study reveals an exceptionally high prevalence of hyperhomocysteinemia among healthy Indian doctors, irrespective of age.
  • Elevated homocysteine levels in this cohort may signify an increased future risk for vascular diseases.
  • Further research into homocysteine-lowering vitamins is recommended to mitigate potential health risks.

Keywords:
HomocysteineHyperhomocysteinemiaPrevalence

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