Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Jan 6: It is a concerning development for the people of Jammu and Kashmir that more than 50 per cent of children aged 5 to 9 years are found to have high levels of triglycerides, a type of fat in the blood.
According to the ‘Children in India 2025’ report by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, 50.2% of children in this age group in Jammu and Kashmir have elevated triglyceride levels. Triglycerides are fats stored in the body and used for energy.
The doctors explained that while normal triglyceride levels are a part of healthy metabolism, unusually high levels indicate imbalances in how the body processes fats.
They said persistently elevated triglycerides in adults are known risk factors for heart disease, stroke, and metabolic disorders, and similar risks are present even when such abnormalities are detected in childhood.
Dr Shahid Ahmad Bhat, a paediatrician, warned that children with high triglycerides are more vulnerable to obesity, insulin resistance, and early signs of cardiovascular disease later in life.
He added that elevated triglyceride levels often do not produce immediate symptoms but, if left untreated, can contribute to the early buildup of fatty deposits in arteries, narrowing blood flow and increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke in adulthood. Other associated health issues include obesity, type 2 diabetes, pancreatitis, and more.
Doctors said that children are not immune to lifestyle-related diseases, as modern diets and sedentary habits are accelerating their risk of health problems traditionally seen in adults. Factors contributing to high triglycerides in children include increased consumption of sugar and deep-fried foods, more screen time, reduced physical activity, genetic predisposition, obesity, and overweight, they said.
Dr Murtaza Khan advised that to safeguard children’s health both now and in the future, parents should promote the intake of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, while reducing sugar, chips, deep-fried foods, refined carbohydrates, and sugary cereals. Encouraging more physical activity, routine health screenings, and fostering healthy habits are also crucial.
Dr Khan explained: “Childhood is a critical period for addressing high triglycerides, as blood vessels are still flexible and damage is minimal. Early intervention can prevent the development of serious health issues later in life. Although high triglycerides usually do not cause immediate symptoms, they serve as an early warning sign for heart disease, diabetes, fatty liver, and metabolic syndrome, and are highly reversible with lifestyle modifications if addressed promptly.”
Doctors reiterated that childhood is the best time to normalise triglyceride levels because effective lifestyle changes can significantly reduce future health risks and promote overall well-being.
