Cardiovascular Effects of Childhood and Adolescent Obesity and Strategies for Prevention and Intervention

Childhood and adolescent obesity impose substantial cardiovascular risks. Studies have linked pediatric obesity with increased left ventricular dimensions and myocardial mass, and even subclinical alterations in myocardial function and vascular stiffness. In adulthood, a history of childhood obesity correlates with hypertension, dyslipidemia, and elevated markers of cardiovascular disease risk. Longitudinal studies underscore that cardiovascular risk factors accumulate from early life, contributing significantly to adult cardiovascular disease burden. Interventions implementing lifestyle changes, including healthy diet, regular physical activity, and addressing metabolic dysfunction have shown improvements in metabolic health and cardiovascular function in obese youth. Evidence-based strategies recommended by major health organizations include: annual BMI screening, cardiovascular risk evaluation, multicomponent community- and family-based interventions, pharmacotherapy for adolescents _x۰۰۰۲_۶۰۱۲ years old, and bariatric surgery for severe cases.

کلیدواژه ها:

childhood obesity ، cardiovascular risk ، BMI ، physical activity ، dietary intervention ، screening ، multicomponent treatment