Preventive Cardiology

The field of pediatric preventive cardiology has increased in importance over the last several decades as it has been recognized that atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries, has its origin in youth. The current obesity epidemic has added some urgency to this endeavor. Historic gains in lowering the cholesterol level in the general population and reducing smoking rates with attendant improvement in cardiac disease rates are threatened by the increased prevalence of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and other risk disturbances associated with overweight.

Cardiovascular risk factors like elevated cholesterol and hypertension are measurable in children and are related to the early development of atherosclerosis. Children with these risk factors can be identified by pediatricians through appropriate screening. New treatments, including behavioral and drug-based strategies, exist. Our cardiologists are experts in this area of preventive medicine and can develop a pressure or high cholesterol to reduce the likelihood of future cardiovascular disease.

Referral to the Nemours Cardiac Center Preventive Cardiology Program will include a complete cardiovascular risk evaluation. Diet and exercise strategies are emphasized, with drug treatment reserved for those at highest risk. Our cardiologists are experts in this area of preventive medicine and can develop a management plan for your child if he or she has struggled with obesity, high blood pressure or high cholesterol to reduce the likelihood of future cardiovascular disease.