Summary: A happy childhood can reduce risk of heart disease.A recent study showed that children who had a happier childhood were less likely to suffer from coronary artery calcification. Coronary artery calcification (CAC) is the the result of calcium deposits in coronary arteries. CAC causes blood vessels to narrow and harden over time.The study, which was conducted in Finland, analyzed children between three and 18 years and looked at them again 27 years later. Researchers took into consideration the socioeconomic status of the family, the emotional well-being of the family, parental health, stressful events, and the ability to self regulate attention. The more positives they had in these areas, the better their heart health later in life.Cardiologist Dr. Jennifer Haythe joins Dr. Leigh to discuss how childhood happiness (or lack thereof) affects heart health in adulthood.
