Heart disease was once thought of as a problem that only adults could develop. However, heart disease in children is becoming more common.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1 in 100 babies are born with heart defects in the United States each year. Additionally, childhood obesity is a growing concern, and is linked to an increased risk of heart disease in children.

Therefore, it is important to identify risk factors for heart disease in children so that steps can be taken to prevent it from occurring.

Family History of Heart Disease

Family history of heart disease is a major risk factor for heart disease in both adults and children. If a child has a family member who has had a heart attack or stroke, they are at higher risk of developing heart disease themselves.

This is especially true if the family member developed heart disease at a young age. If a child has a family history of heart disease, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider about steps that can be taken to reduce their risk.

Obesity

Childhood obesity is a major risk factor for heart disease. Children who are overweight or obese are more likely to develop high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and type 2 diabetes, which are all risk factors for heart disease.

Additionally, obesity can lead to inflammation, which can damage the arteries and lead to the development of heart disease. Parents can help reduce their child’s risk of heart disease by encouraging regular physical activity and healthy eating habits.

Sedentary Lifestyle

A sedentary lifestyle is another risk factor for heart disease in children. Children who spend a lot of time sitting in front of screens (TV, computer, tablet, etc.) have a greater risk of developing heart disease.

This is because a sedentary lifestyle often goes hand-in-hand with a lack of physical activity, which is important for maintaining a healthy weight and reducing the risk of heart disease. Parents should encourage their children to participate in physical activities that they enjoy, such as sports, dance, or bike riding.

Poor Diet

A diet high in saturated and trans fats, added sugars, and sodium can increase the risk of heart disease in children.

For example, a diet high in processed foods, sugary drinks, and fast food can lead to obesity, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol, all of which are risk factors for heart disease. On the other hand, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help reduce the risk of heart disease. Parents should encourage their children to make healthy food choices and provide them with nutritious meals and snacks.

High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a risk factor for heart disease in both adults and children. High blood pressure can damage the arteries and lead to the development of heart disease.

Children who are overweight or obese are at higher risk of developing high blood pressure. Additionally, certain medical conditions, such as kidney disease or sleep apnea, can increase the risk of high blood pressure in children.

Parents should talk to their child’s healthcare provider about monitoring their blood pressure and taking steps to reduce their risk if necessary.

High Cholesterol

High cholesterol, specifically high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, is a risk factor for heart disease in both adults and children.

High cholesterol can cause plaque buildup in the arteries, which can lead to blockages and heart attacks. Children who are overweight or obese are at higher risk of developing high cholesterol. Additionally, family history and certain medical conditions can also increase the risk of high cholesterol in children.

If a child is at risk for high cholesterol, their healthcare provider may recommend regular cholesterol screening and lifestyle changes to help reduce their risk.

Smoking Exposure

Exposure to secondhand smoke can increase the risk of heart disease in children. Secondhand smoke can damage the arteries and lead to plaque buildup, which can increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Additionally, children who are exposed to smoke are more likely to develop asthma and other respiratory illnesses, which can also increase the risk of heart disease. Parents should make every effort to keep their children away from smoking or smokers, and should also quit smoking themselves if they are smokers.

Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a risk factor for heart disease in both adults and children. Children who are overweight or obese are at higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Additionally, children who have a family history of type 2 diabetes or who are of certain ethnic backgrounds, such as African American, Hispanic, or Native American, may be at higher risk. Parents should talk to their child’s healthcare provider about monitoring their blood sugar levels and taking steps to prevent or manage type 2 diabetes if necessary.

Stress

Stress may also be a risk factor for heart disease in children. Chronic stress can cause inflammation, which can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries.

Additionally, stress can cause emotional eating and a sedentary lifestyle, which can increase the risk of obesity and other risk factors for heart disease. Parents should talk to their children about stress management techniques, such as exercise, relaxation techniques, and talking to a trusted adult.

Conclusion

Overall, there are several risk factors for heart disease in children, including family history, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking exposure, diabetes, and stress.

Parents can take steps to reduce their child’s risk of heart disease by encouraging healthy habits, such as regular physical activity and a healthy diet. Additionally, it is important for parents to talk to their child’s healthcare provider about monitoring their risk and taking steps to prevent or manage heart disease if necessary.