B. Vogrin
Ambulanta za otroke in šolarje Pedenjped, Lenart, Slovenija

M. Slak Rupnik
Univerza na Dunaju, Dunaj, Avstrija, Alma Mater Europaea, Evropski center Maribor, Maribor, Slovenija

D. Mičetić Turk
Klinični oddelek za pediatrijo, Univerzitetni klinični center Maribor, Maribor, Slovenija

Abstract

Introduction: Early discovery of metabolic and vascular disturbances can greatly contribute to the prevention of metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Pulse wave velocity (PWV), the Augmentation index (AIx) and central systolic arterial pressure (SBPao) are all good indicators of vascular health, while serum lipids, including free fatty acids (FFA), are indicators of metabolic health. Materials and methods: 81 healthy schoolchildren, aged 11-16 years, were included. Their psychosocial status, eating habits and school success were documented using a questionnaire. We measured body weight, height, waist circumference, upper arm skin fold and calculated the body mass index (BMI) and standard deviation according to sex and age (SDS BMI). The characteristics of the arterial system were evaluated by AIx, PWV and SBPao. Serum lipids, FFA and glucose were analysed. Data on motor skills were obtained from the SLOFIT programme. Results: In obese children (SDS BMI>2), higher values of PWV, TRG and PMK, as well as a lower HDL compared to normal-weight or overweight children, were documented. We found typical correlations between AIx, PWV and SBPao and school success and some motor tests. Conclusions: Measuring AIx, PWV, SBPao, serum lipids and FFA can detect a tendency towards metabolic disturbances and CVD, even among healthy schoolchildren.

Key words: metabolic syndrome, augmentation index, pulse wave velocity, child.