Heart disease is widely regarded as an adult health concern, but its roots can actually extend back to childhood or even earlier. Research now shows that many of the risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease begin developing in the early years, influenced by genetics, prenatal conditions, and early-life habits. Establishing heart-healthy practices during childhood can significantly reduce the likelihood of heart disease later in life. Early intervention through proper nutrition, regular physical activity, and preventive healthcare plays a crucial role in giving children the best chance at lifelong cardiovascular health.
To understand why heart disease prevention should start in childhood, OnlyMyHealth interacted with Dr R Kishore Kumar, Paediatrician and Neonatologist, Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Bengaluru.
He says, “When it comes to heart disease, prevention is better than cure and truly begins at the earliest stages of life, even before a child is born.” His insights reinforce that cardiovascular health’s foundation is laid in the womb, making early intervention essential to lifelong heart health. Here’s a closer look at how factors before conception, during pregnancy, and in early childhood shape heart health and why proactive measures are necessary.
Role of Parental Health Before Conception
A child’s heart health can be significantly influenced by the health and lifestyle choices of parents before conception. Dr Kumar explains “The seeds of cardiovascular health are sown in the womb or even before conception, and the care provided during pregnancy and early childhood can have lasting effects on a person’s heart health." Both prospective parents should focus on maintaining optimal health, as pre-existing conditions like hypertension, diabetes, or even lifestyle habits such as smoking can increase a child's heart disease risk.
For instance, research links paternal smoking to a higher chance of congenital heart defects. Additionally, genetic factors play a role, meaning a family history of heart disease can also heighten a child’s risk. This underscores the importance of parents managing chronic conditions, reducing stress, and avoiding unhealthy habits to set a solid foundation for their child’s future heart health.
Also read: How Parental Health Shapes A Child’s Heart: Expert Explains Its Lifelong Impact
Pregnancy’s Impact on Heart Health
During pregnancy, a mother’s health and lifestyle choices can impact her child’s cardiovascular health. A study published by The Journal of Clinical Hypertension says that conditions like gestational diabetes and hypertension not only complicate pregnancy but also increase the likelihood of heart issues for the child. Dr Kumar points out that preterm birth, a known heart disease risk factor, may be linked to such maternal conditions. Babies born prematurely often face immediate health challenges, such as Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) and hypotension, both of which can impact their future cardiovascular health.
Nutritional management in preterm infants is crucial as well. Although specialised diets help promote growth, excessive nutrition can lead to obesity—a primary heart disease precursor. Dr Kumar highlights the need for careful monitoring by healthcare providers during pregnancy to prevent long-term risks associated with heart disease.
Providing a Healthy Start After Birth
After birth, maintaining a balanced diet is essential for a child’s lifelong cardiovascular health. Children who consume excessive carbohydrates early on may develop a high Body Mass Index (BMI), which correlates with heart disease later in life. Dr Kumar emphasises that “parents should work closely with pediatricians to ensure that their children receive a balanced diet that supports healthy growth and development while minimizing the risk of obesity.”
Importance of Congenital Heart Screening
Early screening for congenital heart defects can be a lifesaving intervention for newborns. Dr Kumar strongly advocates for congenital heart screening, which can detect Complex Congenital Cyanotic Heart Diseases (CCCHD) early on. “This non-invasive test, which takes only a few minutes, can provide vital information about whether a baby has a heart condition,” he shares. Early detection allows for timely intervention and significantly improves outcomes for children born with heart issues.
Also read: Congenital Heart Disease In Children: What Are The Risk Factors?
Nutritional Awareness and Heart Health
The Fetal Origins of Adult Disease (FOAD) concept underlines how nutritional choices during fetal development influence an individual's heart health in adulthood. Poor prenatal nutrition or childhood over-nutrition increases the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD) later on. Dr Kumar humorously predicts that, due to intergenerational effects, we may see fathers bringing their children to cardiologists instead of the reverse, a reminder of the lasting impact of early nutritional choices.
Role of Schools, Pediatricians, and Parents
Preventing heart disease requires collaboration between parents, schools, and pediatricians. Schools can support heart health by promoting physical activities and incorporating heart health education. Pediatricians should conduct regular heart screenings and advise parents on a healthy lifestyle for their children.
Parents have the greatest influence on their child’s lifestyle and must model healthy behaviors. Dr Kumar encourages parents to promote regular physical activity, provide nutritious food, and avoid harmful habits like smoking, which instills the value of heart health from a young age.
Conclusion
Early intervention is key to preventing heart disease later in life. Through lifestyle management, early screenings, and nutritional education, we can reduce children’s risk of heart disease, giving them the best start possible for lifelong cardiovascular health. Heart health isn’t just an individual responsibility—it’s a community effort involving parents, educators, and healthcare systems to build a healthier future for the next generation.