Fetal origin of adult disease

Abstract

Fetal origins of adult disease, a concept first popularized by Dr David Barker, has subsequently led to many studies which have provided the evidence that certain diseases do have links pointing to fetal origins—adverse influences early in development, and particularly during intrauterine life, can result in permanent changes in physiology and metabolism, which result in increased disease risk in adulthood. Links that are well-established are—reduced birth weight and increased risk of coronary heart disease, hypertension and stroke in adulthood. The concept of a fetal origin of adult disease have been extended well-beyond coronary heart disease and being a risk factor for coronary heart disease, and now includes investigations of the development of the central nervous system, early origins of adult mental health and cognitive function. By understanding fetal origin of adult disease, health care professionals and policy makers will make this issue a high health care priority and implement preventive measures and treatment for those at higher risk for chronic diseases.