On Wednesday, SRL Diagnostics announced the launch of ‘Heart Assure', a specialised test that can predict the risk of a cardiac event. As per the diagnostic company, High sensitivity Troponin I (hsTnI) is a simple blood test that can precisely predict a cardiac event or injury by providing a heart health risk score.

The prevalence of heart disorders like heart attacks is rising, especially among young people. India has one of the highest burdens of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the world. The annual number of CVD deaths in India is expected to rise from 2.26 million in 1990 to 4.77 million in 2020.

Heart disease prevalence rates in India have been estimated over the past several decades and have ranged from 1.6 per cent to 7.4 per cent in rural populations and from 1 per cent to 13.2 per cent in urban populations.

The company, in its statement, said, "This cardiac-specific test measures even small amounts (picogram/ml) of Troponin I in the blood to calculate the risk of developing a cardiac event in the future. Based on the value attained in the test, the risk is reported as low, moderate, or elevated. Patients with moderate or elevated risk in the test should immediately consult a cardiologist for further diagnosis and workup. "

"Troponin I is the only troponin isotope in the myocardium and is not expressed during any developmental stage in skeletal muscle. Troponin I is released into the bloodstream soon after the onset of symptoms of myocardial infarction or ischemic damage. It rises rapidly within 3 to 6 hours following the onset of chest pain, with peak concentrations at 16 to 24 hours, and remains elevated for days," the diagnostic company stated.

It further stated that in asymptomatic and healthy individuals, the troponin 1 test can be used to stratify risk and predict future cardiovascular risks.

"We are pleased to launch the high sensitivity troponin I test to help doctors and patients make critical health decisions. CVD is now a leading cause of mortality in India. CVDs will continue to pose a significant economic and social burden in India in the next few years. While India has developed a National List of Essential Diagnostics that includes many CVD-related diagnostics, large-scale CVD screening has yet to occur. Early diagnosis and lifestyle management are crucial and can help people manage their health optimally, " said Anand K, Chief Executive Officer, SRL Diagnostics.