Recent statistics suggest that heart disease isn’t limited to old age, especially if you’re obese.
A new study in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism finds that children who are diagnosed as obese are more likely to have cardiovascular problems as they get older – and this is even before they are diagnosed with metabolic syndrome. Lead researcher Nelly Mauras said the consequences of having too much body fat start early – and can cause abnormalities in the blood that predispose some kids to cardiovascular disease. This includes early markers of inflammation and blood clotting, which are causes for concern.
This study ties to a new report from federal health officials concerning heart disease among older kids. A national survey of blood test results from teenagers, ages 12 to 19, showed that one in five has a cholesterol level high enough to be a cardiovascular risk.
Linda Van Horn of the American Heart Association went on record as saying, “This is the future of America,” adding that the statistics are an urgent call for families and healthcare providers to get serious about the problem.
