The use of ultrasonography for the early detection of cardiovascular risk in adolescents

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the major cause of mortality and morbidity globally and is the leading cause of death in South Africa second to HIV/AIDS. CVD is on the rise not only in adults but also in children. The presence of modifiable CVD risk factors, such as, smoking, alcohol intake, diet quality, physical activity and obesity, during adolescence increases the chances of having a poor cardiovascular risk profile in adulthood. Therefore, the prevention of CVD in adolescents is important to prevent premature death from CVD. The aim of this study was to assess whether ultrasound measurements of intima-media thickness could indicate CVD risk and an association with modifiable risk factors in adolescent student population.