Elaborating on factors leading to CVD in women, Dr Sawhney said that sedentary lifestyle is largely to be blamed. “There is a lack of activity among women, which often leads to obesity. Apart from this, smoking also adds to the risk. Hypertension, which increases steeply after menopause, diabetes and stress are other vital factors,” said Dr Sawhney.

While 50 per cent of risk factors are genetic, 80 per cent is acquired through habits that one forms, feel doctors. “We need to bring about changes in our eating habits. Consumption of desi ghee, red meats and alcohol should be in moderate quantity. One should eat more of fresh vegetables and fruits. All dairy products need to have good cholesterol, which should be greater than 40 mg/dL in men and 50 mg/dL in women,” Dr Malhotra added.