Señales aterogénicas tempranas en niños entre 3 y 5 años de un círculo infantil de La Habana

Background. This paper was aimed at analysing early atherogenic signs (EAS) since they are present from the earliest stages in life onwards and can persist throughout adulthood if effective measures are not taken. Materials and methods. A cross-sectional study was made of 119 3- to 5-year-old children. An anthropometric exam (weight, size, body mass index (BMI) was completed, the family background regarding atherosclerotic risk was ascertained and blood pressure was measured three times (the average being recorded). Nutritional state was evaluated using Cuban BMI charts and blood pressure by charts for the fourth report of hypertension. Results. It was seen that BMI increased with age, greater frequency regarding obesity occurring at 5-years-old (41.1%). Six (7%) of the children had pre-hypertension/hypertension. There was a family background of atherosclerotic risk in 59.7% (a history of smoking and hypertension prevailed). Children weighing 2,500 to 3,000 grams at birth had higher BMI and blood pressure values. Conclusions. The study revealed EAS in preschool aged children, some of them having more than one sign. Higher BMI and blood pressure values in children weighing 2,500 to 3,000 grams at birth represents a warning that preventative measures should be taken from early ages in life.