Arterial stiffness in children with and without probable developmental coordination disorder.

BACKGROUND

Children with cardiovascular disease risk factors demonstrate adverse arterial alterations that are predictive of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in adults. Children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD) are at cardiovascular risk as they are more likely to be obese and inactive.

AIM

The purpose of this study was to assess arterial structure and function in children with and without probable DCD (p-DCD).

METHODS

A cross-sectional study of 33 children with p-DCD (22 male) and 53 without (30 male). The Movement Assessment Battery for Children was used to classify those with p-DCD. Adiposity was assessed using the BOD POD. Compliance, distensibility, and intima-media thickness were measured at the common carotid artery (CCA). ECG R-wave-to-toe pulse wave velocity (PWV) was also measured.

RESULTS

Compared to controls, males with p-DCD had lower CCA distensibility (p=0.034) and higher PWV (p=0.001). No differences were evident in females. Body fat percent was a significant predictor of CCA distensibility and removed the effect of p-DCD on PWV in males.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study demonstrates augmented arterial stiffness in males with p-DCD, likely attributed to body fat. These findings underscore the importance of targeted interventions in children with p-DCD, specifically males, in order to prevent future cardiovascular risk.