[Fetal growth retardation and diseases in adult life].

Numerous epidemiologic studies in different populations reveal an association between intrauterine growth restriction and the occurrence of arterial hypertension, arteriosclerosis, hyperlipidemia, type 2 diabetes mellitus and mental diseases later in life. Animal studies confirm these associations to be independent from genetic conformation and postpartum influences. However, both the mechanisms of intrauterine programming and the critical time of an insult to result in fetal problems are unclear. Therefore, the results of large-scale, prospective studies are needed before therapeutic interventions during pregnancy or post partum to prevent adverse effects of fetal programming are scientifically justified. Copyright 2008 S. Karger AG, Basel.