Advances in Pediatric Research Using Non-Invasive Technology-Showing Precursors of Cardiovascular Disease Occurring Later in Life

Abstract

There is an increasing prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors in children, specifically in low socioeconomic regions where children are exposed to several factors as early as the fetal stage, increasing their risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD) later in life. However, atherosclerosis develops silently from early childhood, long before the manifestation of cardiovascular risk factors. The aim of the chapter is to provide insights on the advances in pediatric research using non-invasive ultrasound technology for the detection of subclinical atherosclerosis in children and to explore the acceptance and distribution of ultrasound technology. The use of ultrasound technology is increasing in developing countries, and many universities are offering training courses for health professionals. Therefore, the adoption of low-cost, portable ultrasound machines, training of medical staff, together with teleradiology can drastically improve healthcare access, cardiovascular risk identification in pediatrics, and prevent the development of CVD in high-risk populations.