The incidence of risk factors for coronary heart disease in children

Abstract

Aim:The aim of our survey was to determine the current incidence of risk factors of coronary heart disease (CHD) and some related data for children in the Czech Republic, and to compare these data with figures reported by previous studies. Methods: This was a questionnaire-based prospective study organized by the Czech Society of General Practitioners for Children and Adolescents. Data were obtained during preventive checkups of children aged five and 13 years (when some questions related to CHD prevention in children are included according to the healthcare system rules and regulations) and, again, when 17 years old. Evaluated parameters included body mass index, blood pressure, smoking status, physical activity, lipid profile, and family history focused on risk factors. Questions included the length of breastfeeding, eating habits, size of the community, and the region of residence. Results: Analysis of data from 4,104 children revealed a marked increase in the incidence of obesity and hypertension, particularly among those aged 13 and 17 years. Among respondents, smoking was admitted by 13-year-olds (3%) and 17-year-olds (21%). A decrease in physical activity among Czech children was confirmed. While only about one in three children gets a proper amount of exercise per week, the same proportion of children was found not to have enough exercise, and another third of children in this country gets an absolutely inadequate amount of exercise. A significant extension of the length of breastfeeding was confirmed. The mean levels of total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, and triglycerides were 4.27, 2.50, 1.41, and 1.0 mmol/l, respectively. Compared with a similar survey conducted in 2000, a decrease in lipids among children at increased risk for CHD was demonstrated.