The Growing Emphasis on Preventative Pediatric Cardiology: A Lifelong Health Strategy
Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic – The conversation around children’s health is shifting, with a growing recognition that preventative measures, particularly through physical activity, are not luxuries but essential components of a healthy life. Dr. Dhamelisse Then Vanderhorst, a leading pediatric cardiologist and Director of Hospital Pediátrico Hugo Mendoza, is at the forefront of this movement, advocating for a proactive approach to cardiovascular health starting in early childhood.
Sports as Medicine: Backed by Science
Dr. Then emphasizes that “sports is medicine,” a perspective supported by guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Cardiology. These organizations recommend at least one hour of moderate to intense physical activity at least three times a week for children aged 3 to 6. This isn’t simply about fitness. it’s about building a foundation for lifelong cardiovascular well-being.
The urgency stems from the rising rates of cardiovascular disease globally, often with roots in childhood habits. Early intervention, Dr. Then explains, can mitigate both inherited and acquired risk factors.
The Family Factor: Leading by Example
Fostering a physically active lifestyle isn’t solely the responsibility of schools or organized sports. Dr. Then stresses the crucial role of parents. “Children don’t do what we say, they do what we do,” she notes, citing research that demonstrates children of active parents are more likely to maintain that behavior into adulthood.
This presents a challenge in the modern era, where screen time and sedentary activities increasingly compete for children’s attention. Parents must actively promote sports and physical activity, creating a culture of movement within the family.
Recreational vs. Competitive Sports: Knowing the Difference
Dr. Then highlights a critical distinction between recreational and competitive sports. While both are beneficial, competitive athletics demand a higher level of physical exertion and require careful consideration.
Before enrolling a child in competitive sports, a thorough medical evaluation is essential. The American College of Cardiology has established 14 key assessment points to identify potential cardiovascular risks. Silent cardiovascular conditions, which may not present symptoms until under stress, can be particularly dangerous, with an estimated one in 50,000 young athletes experiencing sudden death.
Recognizing Warning Signs During Activity
Parents and coaches should be vigilant for warning signs during physical activity. Dr. Then identifies several symptoms that warrant immediate medical attention, including chest pain, dizziness, fainting, palpitations, skin discoloration, and excessive fatigue or shortness of breath.
Combating Sedentarism and the Allure of Screens
Sedentary lifestyles, defined as less than 150 minutes of physical activity per week, are a growing concern. Excessive screen time, particularly non-educational content (recommended maximum of two hours daily), exacerbates this problem. Dr. Then points out the broader impact of inactivity, affecting concentration, socialization, and sleep patterns.
Beyond Exercise: Addressing Additional Risk Factors
Dr. Then emphasizes that sedentarism doesn’t operate in isolation. Other risk factors, such as hypertension, high cholesterol, family history of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and exposure to substances like vaping products, all contribute to cardiovascular risk. She is particularly concerned about the impact of vaping on the endothelium, the inner lining of blood vessels.
Annual Evaluation for Young Athletes
For children involved in organized sports, Dr. Then recommends annual cardiovascular evaluations. The heart adapts to athletic training, potentially increasing in size and decreasing heart rate. Regular monitoring allows healthcare professionals to track these changes and identify any abnormalities early on.
Hydration, Steroids, and Performance Pressure
Proper hydration is paramount, especially during intense training. Dr. Then cautions against the employ of performance-enhancing substances, emphasizing that young athletes should not be treated as “prospects” but as children whose health and well-being are the priority. She also highlights the dangers of dehydration, which can lead to fainting and fractures.
A Message to Parents: Prioritize Prevention
Dr. Dhamelisse Then’s message is clear: prioritize preventative care and promote a physically active lifestyle from a young age. “Exercise is prevention, it’s health, and it’s life,” she states. “But it must be done with medical evaluation, good hydration, and adequate supervision.”
Frequently Asked Questions
- At what age should children start being physically active? Children should commence engaging in moderate to intense physical activity around age 3, for at least one hour, three times a week.
- What are some warning signs during exercise that require medical attention? Chest pain, dizziness, fainting, palpitations, skin discoloration, and excessive fatigue are all red flags.
- How much screen time is acceptable for children? A maximum of two hours of non-educational screen time per day is recommended.
- Is competitive sports safe for all children? Not necessarily. A thorough medical evaluation is crucial before enrolling a child in competitive sports.
