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BHF - Future health risks for obese children
A review of past studies showed that obese children are more likely to have risk factors for heart disease including raised blood pressure, high cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and a thickening of the heart muscle. Researchers predicted that obese children could already be at a 30-40% higher risk of stroke and heart disease in later life.
BHF's Senior Cardiac Nurse, June Davison, said: “Unless action is taken, childhood obesity is likely to cause future health problems for children.
“Obese children are more likely to become obese adults and with this comes a greater risk of developing conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure.
“However, this problem can be solved by teaching children about the importance of lifestyle at a young age. By highlighting the need to eat healthily and stay active, we can help today’s children, and tomorrow’s adults, to keep their hearts healthy.”
This study was published in the British Medical Journal.
Get more information
- Our Food 4 Thought campaign is working to tackle childhood obesity by encouraging children to make healthier lifestyle choices.
- Read our tips for parents
- Get free resources for parents
