Experts urge cholesterol tests for children by age 10 to detect hidden risks

Speaking at the India Today HealthWealth Summit 2026, cardiologist Dr Ashok Seth and Dr Anoop Misra, executive chairman and director at Fortis C-DOC, discussed the links between obesity, hidden fat and cardiovascular disease. The session, titled Bimariyon Ka Baap Motapa, highlighted why heart health concerns can begin much earlier than many people realise. Dr Seth warned that heart disease is increasingly affecting younger Indians. The article notes that around 50 per cent of heart attacks in India occur among people below 50, highlighting the importance of recognising risk factors early. Dr Misra stressed that body weight alone cannot provide a complete picture of health. Fat surrounding internal organs, known as visceral fat, can increase the risk of insulin resistance and other metabolic problems, even among people who do not appear overweight. The doctors also highlighted waist circumference as a useful indicator of abdominal obesity. They discussed several risk factors, including unhealthy diets, smoking, alcohol consumption, prolonged sitting, stress and pollution. Early screening was another key point. The article's headline highlights Dr Seth's recommendation that children should undergo cholesterol testing at age 10. The discussion also covered echocardiograms for assessing certain heart conditions. However, the article clarifies that these tests are not necessary for every child; medical assessment should consider symptoms, family history and individual risk factors. The doctors also emphasised combining weight training with aerobic exercise, eating a balanced diet and maintaining healthy lifestyle habits. Their central message was that preventing heart disease requires more than losing weight: identifying hidden risks and acting early are equally important.