Heart disease is a serious health concern for people of South Asian ancestry, including those from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka. Research has found that South Asian adults can develop cardiovascular risk factors earlier in life, making\u00a0early prevention and regular health screening especially important<\/strong> [American Heart Association]. The good news is that many important heart-health risk factors can be improved. Eating a healthier version of traditional Indian food, exercising regularly, controlling blood pressure and cholesterol, managing blood sugar, avoiding tobacco and getting appropriate medical screening can all help reduce cardiovascular risk.This guide explains practical steps Asian Indians can take to protect their heart without giving up the foods and traditions they love.<\/p>\n South Asian ancestry itself is considered a\u00a0risk-enhancing factor<\/strong> for cardiovascular disease. The American Heart Association identifies South Asian ancestry among factors that should be considered when evaluating heart-attack risk. Recent research is particularly concerning because cardiovascular risk factors may appear at younger ages. A 2026 American Heart Association report on U.S. South Asian adults found higher rates of prediabetes, type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure by middle age compared with several other racial and ethnic group. <\/a><\/h2>\n
Why Are Asian Indians at Higher Risk for Heart Disease?<\/h3>\n