The Shape of Things to Come

Published: 12/27/2007

What’s the problem with a little baby fat? According to two recent studies, the current (and increasing) epidemic of obesity in children may cut years off our children’s lives. The first study found that the risk for future fatal and nonfatal coronary heart disease rose step by step with every increase in BMI (Body Mass Index) in children aged 10-13 (girls) or 7-13 (boys). Another study in the same journal projected that, given the fact that one in three US children and teens are now overweight or obese, there will be a 5-16% increase in coronary heart disease by 2035, and that deaths from heart disease will rise 13-19% in that same period.

What’s the take-home? It’s never too early to start protecting your children from serious health problems in adulthood. Good nutrition, exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep as a child address the roots of heart attack and other cardiovascular problems later.

New England Journal of Medicine, December 6, 2007 (357), 2325-2327, 2329-2337, and 2471-2479.

For more information:

• Thinking Long-term: What You Can Do Now Can Protect Your Kids from Cardiovascular Disease Later
• Assessing Cardiovascular Risk with a Blood Test: What Do All Those Numbers Mean?
• Trans Fatty Acids and Heart Disease
• Right From the Start: Protecting the Child You’re Carrying