Anthropometric and Biochemical Markers as Possible Indicators of Left Ventricular Abnormal Geometric Pattern and Function Impairment in Obese Normotensive Children.

Εmerging data indicate that various effects of obesity on the cardiovascular system can be evident during childhood. The aim of this study was to detect early changes in left ventricular structure and function in obese normotensive children and explore possible associations of these changes with anthropometric and biochemical parameters. Normotensive 8-11-year-old obese and normal weight children were included in the study.

Parental readiness to implement life-style behaviour changes in relation to children's excess weight.

Aim: The aim if this study is to evaluate parental readiness to implement changes in specific life-style behaviours for preventing or reducing obesity in children.

Methods: Eighty-seven parents of overweight or obese children participated in this cross-sectional study. Parents completed a questionnaire for the assessment of their perceptions about their children's weight and their readiness to take action in general, as well as in relation to ten obesogenic life-style behaviours.