New study reveals more children could lead to higher risk of heart attack and stroke
Earlier this week, researchers at Cambridge University released a study which found women who had three to four children were more likely to have serious health problems than those with one or two children, while those with five or more were at an even greater risk.
The research, funded by the British Heart Foundation, aims to bring women’s attention to the possibility they might be at risk of increased heart problems, the more children they have. Here’s everything you need to know.
The study
The study analysed more than 8,000 women from the United States between the ages of 45 and 64 to determine whether health risks were heightened depending on the number of children they had.
The most alarming takeaways from the study discovered women with five or more children had:
- A 40 per cent higher risk of suffering a heart attack in the next 30 years
- A 30 per cent higher risk of heart disease
- A 25 per cent higher risk of having a stroke
- A 17 per cent higher risk of heart failure.
Dr Clare Oliver-Williams, who was part of the research team, said it could be difficult taking care of your health when you have children.
Source: Public Health England
How to encourage a healthy pregnancy
Between pregnancy, childbirth and raising children, there can be tremendous stress and strain on the heart – though there are many ways expectant and new mothers can help create a healthy lifestyle.
These include:
- Eating a well-balanced diet
- Seeking emotional support if needed
- Managing stress and/or anxiety
- Not smoking or consuming alcohol.
What do you think of this new study?
Written by the home doctor Brisbane team.
