(CNN) Having cardiovascular risk factors from childhood to adulthood is linked to poor cognitive performance in a person's 30s, 40s and 50s, according to new research that followed children over three decades. Researchers said the study was the first to highlight the impact of lifelong cardiovascular risk factors on the brain at midlife. It was designed to study cardiovascular risk from childhood to adulthood. On each visit, researchers checked weight, cholesterol, blood pressure and insulin levels, while also looking at lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol use, diet and physical activity. "Children who have adverse cardiovascular risk factors might benefit from early intervention and lifestyle modifications," Hakala said in a statement.

Source: CNN May 10, 2021 10:07 UTC