Cardiovascular disease in South Asian Canadians: using risk factors to target primary and secondary prevention

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease incidence and risk profiles vary substantially across ethnicities within Canada, with South Asians carrying a disproportionately high burden of disease. South Asians exhibit high incidences of modifiable risk factors that predispose them to cardiovascular disease: dyslipidemia, hypertension, diabetes, and physical inactivity. As well as a genetic predisposition through elevated lipoprotein(a) levels. Dietary and physical activity prescriptions must consider South Asian culture and barriers they face. These include culturally tailored dietary guidelines and women-only fitness centres. Lipoprotein(a), an atherogenic molecule, is genetically determined and elevated in South Asians but may be modified with antisense oligonucleotide therapy. This therapy warrants consideration as part of the treatment algorithms for South Asians with elevated lipoprotein(a) levels. Introducing these practices into primary and secondary prevention guidelines may reduce the cardiovascular disease burden seen in South Asians.