New Delhi, Sep 26: A government report has revealed that more than one-third of India’s children aged 5–9 are likely to have high triglycerides, raising serious concerns over long-term health outcomes. The condition, which involves elevated levels of blood fat linked to future heart disease, was found most prevalent in Jammu and Kashmir, West Bengal, and several northeastern states.
According to the Children in India 2025 report, 67% of children in West Bengal, 64% in Sikkim, 57% in Assam, 55% in Nagaland, and 50% in Jammu and Kashmir were estimated to have high triglyceride levels. By contrast, Kerala (16.6%) and Maharashtra (19.1%) recorded the lowest prevalence.
Released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation during the 29th Conference of Central and State Statistical Organisations (CoCSSO) in Chandigarh, the report compiles data from the National Family Health Survey (2019–21) and the Comprehensive National Nutrition Survey (2016–18).
The findings also highlight other critical health concerns. Prematurity and low birth weight remain the leading causes of newborn deaths in India (48%), followed by birth asphyxia and trauma (16%), and pneumonia (9%).
Among adolescents, over 16% were estimated to have high triglycerides, while about 5% were classified as hypertensive, with Delhi (10%) recording the highest prevalence.
The report also provides insights into education and child protection. It notes that 63.1% of Indian children and adolescents are literate, with literacy rates higher among boys across most age groups.
The ministry described the publication as a “comprehensive analysis of child well-being in India”, underscoring the urgent need to address lifestyle and nutrition related challenges.