Diet, physical activity, childhood obesity and risk of cardiovascular disease

Eating and physical activity (PA) patterns and obesity in childhood have many long-term effects on the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Two-thirds of premature deaths in the US are due to poor nutrition, lack of PA and tobacco use. Obesity, a result of excess energy intake and inadequate PA, is an indicator of unhealthy lifestyles. Currently, over one-third of American children are overweight. Obesity in childhood is associated with dyslipidaemia, elevated blood pressure, and increased future CVD morbidity and mortality. Healthy eating and PA are essential for good health. National representative data show that unhealthy eating and insufficient PA is a serious problem among American children. Efforts should be made to help young people to develop healthy lifestyles at early age.