Glencoe Health © 2007

Introduction:
Teens don’t usually worry very much about cardiovascular disease, but you should: it is the third most prevalent cause of death among children and adolescents.There are many steps you can take to avoid heart disease now and as you get older. The Web site below explores more about the cardiovascular system, some common heart and circulatory conditions, and how you can best prevent these problems.

Links to Explore:
Healthy Living: Medical Conditions, Heart and Circulatory System
http://www.rainbowbabies.org/Home/HealthyLiving/AskRainbow/
MedicalConditions/MedicalConditionsArticle/tabid/383/newsid/20540/Default.aspx

Directions:

• Click on the link and read the article.
• Then answer the following questions:

1.			Explain the difference between congenital and acquired heart problems.
2.			What percentage of teens have high cholesterol levels that put them at increased risk of cardiovascular disease?
3.			What are some causes of high blood pressure in infants, children, and teens?
4.			How can an untreated strep throat infection lead to Rheumatic heart disease?
5.			What are the best ways to keep the heart healthy and avoid long-term problems like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart disease?