Studies of atherosclerosis determinants and precursors during childhood and adolescence.

At a Meeting of Investigators on Epidemiological Studies of Atherosclerosis Determinants and Precursors, which was held in Geneva on 7-9 November 1983, representatives from 26 countries reviewed the current status of epidemiological studies in this area. Particular interest was shown in the following determinants of cardiovascular disease: blood pressure, blood lipid levels, body weight, pathological studies, and tobacco use. Working papers on each determinant were prepared, and recommendations were made on areas for research, and on the need for prevention programmes and pathological studies. This article summarizes the work of the meeting.