Q: Why are Indo/Pak residents in the UK prone to high incidence of coronary heart disease. What ages are more affected and how can one prevent it?

A:The prevalence of coronary heart disease in immigrant Asian Indians is 10%. It is higher than the rate observed in the indigenous population. Genetic predisposition may contribute but Diabetes Mellitus, low HDL Cholesterol, high triglycerides and life style changes with migration increase this tendency.

Smoking and obesity are not contributing factors. The mean age at diagnosis of CHD is 46 years (range 27-61 years).You should have your blood sugar and Fasting lipid profile checked. Regular exercise and low cholesterol diet are important in preventing heart disease. The requirement of medications would be guided by the blood test report abnormalities.