Fetal and childhood onset of adult cardiovascular diseases.

Meryl S Cohen

Journal: Pediatric clinics of North America 2005;51(6):1697-719, x

PMID: 15561181

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Abstract

Childhood onset of adult cardiovascular disease has become a significant public health problem. Whether genetic, environmental, or fetal influences are the primary culprits in the epidemic of the cardiovascular disease seen today remains unknown. The benefits of an overall physically active lifestyle that includes weight control, lower blood pressure, avoidance of tobacco use, and consistent exercise are clear and can impact the overall health of children and adolescents. Physicians who care for children and adolescents must begin to incorporate screening of adult cardiovascular disorders into their practice. Better understanding of the etiology of these disease states will bring with it enhanced preventive and targeted therapies.

Address: Division of Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, 34th and Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA. [email protected]

DOI: 10.1016/j.pcl.2004.08.001

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MeSH Terms: Adolescent, Adult, Cardiovascular Diseases, Child, Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2, Fetal Growth Retardation, Fetal Nutrition Disorders, Humans, Hyperlipidemias, Hypertension, Obesity, Risk Factors