Study Obese children are already showing signs of heart disease

Obese children: Already eight-year-olds show signs of heart disease
According to a new study, obese children may already show signs of heart disease at primary school age. Even eight-year-olds are at an increased risk. Although the sufferers showed no symptoms, but in investigations could be found damage to their hearts.
Signs of heart disease already at primary school age
Children with severe overweight (obesity) may already show signs of heart disease at primary school age. This was shown by a study presented Tuesday at a cardiologist congress in Orlando, Florida. According to the APA news agency, the researchers compared 20 obese children and adolescents with 20 peers without weight problems in their study. They found that in 40 percent of obese subjects there is an increased risk of heart disease.

Obese children already suffer early from heart damage. Image: kwanchaichaiudom - fotolia

Damage to the heart noted
The scientists justified this circumstance with a thicker heart muscle. Because this could affect the pumpability of the heart. In addition, some of the obese children suffered from asthma, hypertension and depression. Although the patients were reported to have no symptoms of heart disease, MRI scans have revealed damage to their hearts. The researchers warned in this context of serious diseases in adulthood and lower life expectancy.

Helping children "lead a healthy lifestyle"
Study leader Linyuan Jing said that the finding that adipose children have heart alterations at the age of eight is "alarming." It is to be hoped that this development is reversible. "But it is possible that a lasting damage remains," said Jing. Parents need to be spurred on by this danger "to help their children lead a healthy lifestyle". Nearly a third of those aged between two and 19 in the United States are overweight or obese.

More and more extremely fat children in Germany
In Germany, according to an older study, although less and less fat children, but more extremely thick children. The problem exists worldwide. Recently, an international team of researchers reported that the number of children with obesity has increased dramatically in many countries. To prevent obesity, in addition to a change in diet, which is to get by with less fat and sugar, usually also advised to do more sports for children. At various clinics and other facilities, there are special programs that can help children and teenagers lose pounds. (Ad)