Anthropometric parameter-based assessment for cardiovascular disease predisposition among young Indians.

AIM To assess the predisposition for cardiovascular diseases among young Asian Indians by anthropometric data analysis. METHODS One hundred and thirty males and 329 females aged between 15 and 26 years, attending health care check-ups at VIT University, were included in this study. Their body mass index, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, pulse rate and pressure, along with mean arterial pressure, were measured and the data analyzed as per World Health Organization guidelines. RESULTS Based on the analysis, 54% of the male population was found to be predisposed to cardiovascular disease. Of these, approximately 40% were at highest possible risk, with greater than threshold values of body mass index, waist circumference and waist-to-hip ratio. Females were found to have lower risk. Both genders showed significant correlation (P < 0.0001) between body mass index and waist circumference. Waist-to-hip ratio correlated significantly only in males with the former index whereas it correlated significantly with waist circumference in both genders. Receiver operating curve analysis, when performed, showed optimal sensitivity and specificity for body mass index and waist circumference. CONCLUSION The above results indicate that seeds of cardiovascular disease may have been sown at a young age in Asian Indian populations. Interventional measures are advised to prevent accelerated atherosclerosis leading to premature cardiovascular disease.