Positive experiences may protect children’s heart health

Childhood adversity may harm a child’s heart health, but positive experiences may provide a buffer, a new study suggests.

The study, led by the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, was published in International Journal of CardiologyThe study found that adverse experiences can negatively impact children’s cardiovascular health, while positive experiences are beneficial and can protect against some of the damage caused by adversity.

Data for the study came from the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children (LSAC), which tracked 5,107 infants from birth to 12 years of age.

The study found that childhood adversity experienced from birth to age 11, such as exposure to domestic violence and having a parent with mental illness, may lead to poor cardiovascular health in children later in life. Conversely, positive experiences such as having warm parents and living in a safe living environment were associated with better heart health.

Positive experiences may help explain why some children thrive in the face of adversity and may buffer some of the negative effects that may have on cardiovascular health.

Dr Jun Guo from MCRI said the findings highlighted the importance of early life experiences on children’s cardiovascular health, particularly the protective effect of positive experiences.

He said public health programs focused on prevention and using evidence-based approaches are needed to support all children and families. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for approximately one-third of all deaths.

“Promoting positive childhood experiences, such as building healthy and safe communities, fostering strong family relationships, and strengthening school and community engagement, is critical to preventing future cardiovascular disease,” Dr. Kuo said.

“This research shows that by investing in early years education we can create a healthier future for all Australian children.”