Heart disease is more prevalent in children that have mild kidney problems, according to Science Daily. A study conducted by the Children’s Study of Philadelphia also found heart problems are responsible for 35 percent of deaths in young adults with poor kidney function.
586 children with chronic kidney problems were studied to help determine exactly how the kidneys play a role in the development of heart disease. According to Science Daily, an increase in blood pressure was found in children who had even mild kidney impairments. High blood pressure occurs when the force of blood flow against the blood vessels in above normal.
Metabolic problems, as well as delayed growth and puberty, were also found in the study participants.
"Our findings suggest that more aggressive interventions to improve blood pressure and metabolic abnormalities may be areas where interventions could slow chronic kidney disease progression and decrease the prevalence of cardiovascular disease in children and young adults with chronic kidney disease,” said Susan Furth, MD, as quoted by Science Daily.
There are a variety of causes of kidney dysfunction in children, from polycystic kidney disease to urinary tract problems. High blood pressure is common in children with kidney disease, so it is advisable that parents have their kids checked regularly. The National Kidney Foundation also recommends lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, healthy diet and cutting down on salty foods.
