A groundbreaking study showed that nine out of ten children from Punjab and Delhi did not lead a heart-healthy lifestyle. In a study conducted by cardiologist Rajneesh Kapoor, 3,200 kids between the ages of 5 and 18 were subjected to questionnaire-based assessments of cardiovascular health variables. Each participant was assigned a cardiovascular health score based on their responses to questions about body mass index, physical activity, bedtime, sleep hours, dietary practices, and nicotine exposure.

According to Dr. Kapoor, participants were profiled for advice on lifestyle changes based on their scores compared to the maximum score, which was set at 100. Scores between 70 and 100 were considered healthy, but those between 40 and 70 required mild lifestyle changes. 68% of the study participants fell into the 40-70 score range, whereas 24% had a cardiovascular health score of less than 40. Experts recommend that parents should be cautious and help their kids make lifestyle changes that may reduce their risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

The doctor expressed concern that children′s lifestyle choices could increase their risk of adult cardiovascular disease. He claimed that poor eating practices and insufficient physical activity was mainly responsible for adversely affecting the cardiovascular health score in the research population. 75% of the participating children had inappropriate bedtime hours, 3% of the study′s participants had insufficient sleep, and 38% of the population overall suffered from obesity. The circadian cycle of the body aids in controlling both physical and mental performance.

A balanced diet and enough exercise were both necessary for optimum cardiovascular health. However, it should be remembered that the activity must be age- and interest-appropriate. (ETHealthWorld, August 20, 2022)