CONNECTOR.AE 32 CONNECTOR.AE 33 HEALTH AND WELLNESS HEALTH AND WELLNESS However, having too much of the wrong kind of cholesterol in your blood can lead to buildup in your arteries, increasing your risk of heart disease. Cholesterol is carried in the blood by proteins, forming what we call lipoproteins. These are commonly known as: Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL): Often referred to as ‘bad’ cholesterol because high levels can lead to plaque build-up in your arteries. High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL): The ‘good’ cholesterol, which helps remove LDL from your bloodstream. Managing Cholesterol: How To Keep It In Check When it comes to heart health, one of the most talkedabout concerns is cholesterol, and for good reason. High cholesterol can quietly increase your risk of serious health problems, including heart attacks and strokes, without any obvious symptoms. While high cholesterol is common, the good news is that it’s also one of the most preventable conditions. With the right lifestyle habits and regular check-ups, you can keep your cholesterol levels in check and protect your long-term health. What Is High Cholesterol Cholesterol is a fatty substance made by the liver and found in some foods. It plays an important role in building cells and producing hormones. Maintaining a healthy balance between these two types is key. Why Is High Cholesterol A Concern In The UAE According to Dr. Shaji Azad, Intensivist and Anaesthesiologist at Amana Healthcare, Al Ain, “The lifestyle of the residents of the UAE has a great impact on their cholesterol levels, especially LDL cholesterol”. Modern habits, such as calorie-rich diets, limited physical activity due to extreme heat, and long, stressful work hours, all contribute to the rising number of people with high cholesterol in the region. The widespread availability of fast food and increased screen time have only added to the problem, according to Dr. Shaji Azad from Amana Healthcare. Dr. Seema Aundhekar, General Practitioner at iCare Clinics, Discovery Gardens in Dubai, notes, “I believe this is not specific to only UAE lifestyle but any developing or developed economy where you find sedentary lifestyle, you will find these problems. Diets high in saturated or trans fats, sedentary habits, obesity, diabetes, and smoking significantly raise LDL cholesterol and the risk of heart disease”. But it’s not all bad news. With awareness, motivation, and simple everyday changes, you can take control of your cholesterol levels. Warning Signs To Watch Out For High cholesterol typically doesn’t come with noticeable symptoms, which is why it’s sometimes called a ‘silent’ condition. However, some indirect signs can be linked to high cholesterol, especially if it has already caused some other health problems, which can manifest as: • Chest pain or tightness (angina) • Fatigue or shortness of breath during physical activity • Leg pain while walking (in some cases) These symptoms may indicate narrowed arteries, and it’s important to consult a doctor if you experience any of them. More commonly though, the only way to truly know your cholesterol levels is through a blood test. When Should You Get Checked Dr. Seema Aundhekar from iCare Clinics recommends that adults should have their cholesterol checked every 4 to 6 years, or more frequently if they have risk factors like: • Family history of cholesterol or heart disease • Diabetes or pre-diabetes • Obesity or weight gain around the abdomen area • Smoking habits
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