People abused as children have a higher risk of developing heart disease in later life. A New Zealand study has found that people who were “physically or sexually abused, or rejected by their mothers as children” tended to have higher levels of C-reactive protein, which is a marker of cardiovascular disease. They also had suppressed glucocorticoid hormone production which normally helps to regulate glucose levels, suppress the excess immune response, and help the body cope with stress all of which are related to heart disease, stroke, and other diseases.
The team believes that stress induces abnormal levels of inflammation in children, which has repercussions in adulthood. “Inflammation is a natural response to physical trauma, such as cutting yourself or getting an infection,” explains Danese. “But psychological stress can also trigger inflammation, since stress is really the anticipation of pain.”
New Scientist, January 15, 2007
Tags: children, kids, child abuse, heart, heart disease, cardiovascular disease, abuse, diseases, illness, health, parenting, family