Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in developed countries. The prevention of cardiovascular diseases has typically focused on secondary preventive strategies implemented in adulthood, such as weight loss, physical activity and diet. However, the origin of cardiovascular diseases occurs much earlier in life, even during the perinatal period. More than 30 years ago, epidemiological studies demonstrated that low birth weight is an independent risk factor for adult cardiovascular diseases and mortality. This theory is known as the Fetal Origin of Adult Cardiovascular Diseases, and it postulates that an adverse in utero environment constitutes a first hit that increases the susceptibility to cardiovascular diseases in adulthood.
Current prevention strategies for cardiovascular diseases are typically implemented when a risk factor is identified. However, there is little consideration of antenatal background as a cardiovascular risk factor. It is important to improve knowledge on the major role of an adverse prenatal environment and the increased risk of cardiovascular diseases across life. This will open opportunities for primary prevention strategies starting from the earliest stages of life.
The aim of this special article collection is to highlight the importance of the perinatal environment for optimal cardiovascular development and its association with subsequent cardiovascular disease. We welcome the submission of original research articles, observational studies or systematic reviews/meta-analyses in humans, animal models or in-vitro experiments related with prenatal diseases and their link with long-term cardiovascular structure and function.
Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in developed countries. The prevention of cardiovascular diseases has typically focused on secondary preventive strategies implemented in adulthood, such as weight loss, physical activity and diet. However, the origin of cardiovascular diseases occurs much earlier in life, even during the perinatal period. More than 30 years ago, epidemiological studies demonstrated that low birth weight is an independent risk factor for adult cardiovascular diseases and mortality. This theory is known as the Fetal Origin of Adult Cardiovascular Diseases, and it postulates that an adverse in utero environment constitutes a first hit that increases the susceptibility to cardiovascular diseases in adulthood.
Current prevention strategies for cardiovascular diseases are typically implemented when a risk factor is identified. However, there is little consideration of antenatal background as a cardiovascular risk factor. It is important to improve knowledge on the major role of an adverse prenatal environment and the increased risk of cardiovascular diseases across life. This will open opportunities for primary prevention strategies starting from the earliest stages of life.
The aim of this special article collection is to highlight the importance of the perinatal environment for optimal cardiovascular development and its association with subsequent cardiovascular disease. We welcome the submission of original research articles, observational studies or systematic reviews/meta-analyses in humans, animal models or in-vitro experiments related with prenatal diseases and their link with long-term cardiovascular structure and function.