When it comes to high cholesterol, many factors come into play, and the question arises: Is it primarily a genetic disorder or a result of lifestyle choices? High cholesterol levels can significantly impact our cardiovascular health, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. While genetics can predispose certain individuals to elevated cholesterol levels, lifestyle factors, such as diet, physical activity, and other habits also play a crucial role.
Dr Tushar Tayal, Consultant, Internal Medicine, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, answers whether high cholesterol is a genetic or lifestyle disorder.
Dr Tayal said, “Hyperlipidemia, also known as dyslipidemia, is a condition characterised by elevated levels of cholesterol in the blood. This excess cholesterol can lead to the formation of plaques in blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke. Also, conditions like Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH) are primarily genetic disorders that result in significantly high levels of LDL cholesterol from birth.”
The Indian Heart Journal reports that borderline high LDL cholesterol, low HDL cholesterol, and high triglycerides are the most prevalent dyslipidemias in India. According to a study published by Plos One, due to the high incidence of dyslipidemia in India, urgent lifestyle intervention methods are required to prevent and control this significant cardiovascular risk factor.
Lifestyle Factors and Hyperlipidemia
Dr Tayal said that lifestyle choices play a significant role in the development of hyperlipidemia. He listed the factors contributing to high cholesterol levels as follows:
- Smoking: It damages blood vessels and can lead to the accumulation of cholesterol.
- Excessive alcohol consumption: Consuming alcohol in large quantities can raise cholesterol levels.
- Dietary habits: Consuming foods high in saturated fats and trans fats can contribute to elevated cholesterol levels.
- Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of physical activity can negatively impact cholesterol levels.
- Stress: Chronic stress has been linked to higher cholesterol levels in some individuals. According to Wolters Kluwer Health, psychological stress was a risk factor for lipid disorders,
- Obesity: Being overweight or obese is associated with higher cholesterol levels.
Also Read: Healthy Food Alternatives That Can Prevent Bad Cholesterol
Medical Conditions and Hyperlipidemia
Certain medical conditions can also contribute to the development of hyperlipidemia, including:
- Diabetes: People with diabetes often have abnormal lipid profiles, including high cholesterol levels.
- Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid gland can lead to elevated cholesterol levels.
- Chronic kidney disease and liver disease: These conditions can disrupt normal cholesterol metabolism.
- Lupus: Individuals with lupus may experience abnormal cholesterol levels.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Women with PCOS often have imbalances in cholesterol levels.
Also Read: 7 Reasons Why Your Cholesterol Level Is Not Reducing
Familial Hypercholesterolemia: A Genetic Disorder
While lifestyle factors play a significant role in hyperlipidemia, there is also a genetic component to consider. Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a hereditary illness marked by elevated LDL cholesterol levels from birth. FH can lead to premature heart attacks and may cause cholesterol deposits in various body parts, such as tendons, skin, and cornea.
Familial hypercholesterolemia is often resistant to conventional treatments and requires specialised management strategies. Genetic testing can help identify individuals at risk for FH and guide appropriate interventions.
Disclaimer
The information in this article is provided by the expert. However, we advise you to consult your expert for a diagnosis based on your body type and medical history.