Over 40? Padma Shri cardiologist explains 3 tests that can help protect your heart

Heart disease can develop silently, making regular health checks important, particularly as people grow older. Padma Shri cardiologist Dr D S Gambhir explains why monitoring blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar can help identify cardiovascular risk early.After 40, get these 3 heart health tests done regularly, advises Padma Shri doctorNew Delhi,Oct 31, 2026 16:26 ISTHeart disease is increasingly becoming a concern, with cases of heart attacks being reported even among younger people. While lifestyle habits, stress, obesity and family history can increase cardiovascular risks, many people remain unaware of their heart health until they experience symptoms. Doctors often stress the importance of preventive screening because conditions such as high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol and diabetes can develop without noticeable warning signs.As people cross the age of 40, monitoring these health indicators becomes particularly important. Regular health checks can help identify potential risks early and allow individuals to make necessary lifestyle changes or seek medical treatment.Speaking at the India Today HealthWealth Summit 2026, Padma Shri Dr D S Gambhir, Senior Cardiologist at Kailash Hospital, highlighted three important health checks that people should consider after turning 40. These include blood pressure monitoring, a lipid profile and blood sugar testing.HEART DISEASE RISK INCREASES WITH AGEAccording to Dr Gambhir, people become increasingly vulnerable to heart disease as they grow older. He said that after the age of 40, everyone should pay attention to their cardiovascular health, although the level of risk may differ from person to person. He particularly highlighted the importance of family history. People whose close family members have experienced heart disease may have a higher risk and should be more careful about regular health monitoring.The cardiologist said that preventive screening can help identify risk factors before they develop into serious health problems. He also pointed out that people should not wait for symptoms to appear before paying attention to their heart health.THREE IMPORTANT TESTS AFTER 40 Dr Gambhir recommended monitoring three important health parameters to keep track of cardiovascular risk.1. BLOOD PRESSUREHigh blood pressure is one of the major risk factors for heart disease. However, many people may have hypertension without experiencing noticeable symptoms.Dr Gambhir advised people above 40 to get their blood pressure checked regularly, at least once a year. He added that people who need more frequent monitoring can check it every three months, depending on their health condition.Keeping track of blood pressure can help identify rising levels early and allow people to seek timely medical advice.2. LIPID PROFILEA lipid profile is a blood test that measures different types of cholesterol and fats in the blood. It includes total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and triglycerides.Dr Gambhir stressed the importance of knowing one's cholesterol levels, particularly LDL, commonly known as bad cholesterol.He said that elevated LDL levels should not be ignored, as they can contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease. The target cholesterol level, however, depends on an individual's overall health and risk factors.3. BLOOD SUGAR TESTThe third important test is blood sugar monitoring. Dr Gambhir said people should regularly check their blood sugar levels to identify whether they have diabetes or prediabetes.Prediabetes is a condition in which blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as diabetes.Identifying this condition early can help people take preventive measures, including dietary changes, regular physical activity and weight management. These steps can help reduce the risk of progressing to type 2 diabetes.FAMILY HISTORY SHOULD NOT BE IGNOREDDr Gambhir emphasised that people with a family history of heart disease need to be particularly cautious. Genetic factors, combined with lifestyle habits, can influence an individual's cardiovascular risk.He also highlighted the importance of controlling cholesterol levels and monitoring blood pressure and blood sugar rather than waiting until a health problem becomes serious.Regular screening does not guarantee that a person will never develop heart disease, but it can help identify important risk factors and guide preventive care.LIFESTYLE CHANGES ARE EQUALLY IMPORTANTAlong with medical screening, maintaining a healthy lifestyle plays an important role in protecting heart health. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep and avoiding smoking can help reduce cardiovascular risks.Managing stress and limiting alcohol consumption are also important steps towards better heart health.Dr Gambhir's advice highlights the importance of preventive healthcare, particularly after 40. Monitoring blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar can help people understand their health risks and take timely action rather than waiting for symptoms to appear.- Ends