Were you underweight at the time of birth? This ‘stroke’ connection of research will blow your mind

Does Low Birth Weight Increase Stroke Risk In Adults: People often forget low birth weight as a simple fact at the time of birth. But in the last two decades, researchers have started paying attention to it again. The question is, can birth weight affect health later in life, especially in people who appear healthy on the outside? The answer is not straightforward, but consistent evidence suggests that low birth weight may slightly increase the risk of future stroke.

What do experts say?

Dr Murali Chekuri told TOI that it is not right to consider low birth weight as a problem limited only to infancy. When the baby gets limited nutrition or oxygen in the womb, his body adapts itself to that environment. These changes do not completely correct later. This is called the Health and Development Theory of Organ Disease Origin, according to which conditions during pregnancy can affect the way the body’s organs and systems function throughout life.

What are the changes?

Dr. Murali Chekuri explains that in such children, there may be subtle changes in the functioning of high blood pressure, metabolism and blood vessels. Over time, these changes can lead to high blood pressure, insulin resistance and blood vessel problems, which are major risk factors for stroke.

What came out in the study?

Studies have also been done on a large scale to understand this relationship. In a large study conducted in Sweden, about eight lakh people were included. It was found that people whose average birth weight was less than 3.5 kg had a 21 percent higher risk of stroke. This risk was seen to be 23 percent in men and 18 percent in women, along with this it was also found that with each level of decrease in birth weight, the risk of stroke increases by about 11 percent.

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Dr. explains it in a simple way. According to him, during development in the womb, vital organs of the body adapt themselves for survival. Due to this, the blood vessels may become smaller or stiffer, the functioning of the liver may change and the metabolism may be affected. These changes can make the body weak in the long run.

Does everyone have problems?

This does not mean that everyone with low birth weight will have a stroke. Doctors say it only increases the risk slightly, and does not definitively fix the disease. Experts: If problems like smoking, high BP, blood pressure or cholesterol are added to it, then only the risk increases. Therefore, what is important is awareness, not fear. Steps like regular checking of blood pressure, sugar and cholesterol, active lifestyle, adequate sleep and stress control can reduce this risk to a great extent. According to doctors, the best way is to take precautions in time, so that future danger can be avoided.

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Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.

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