Can Adult Cardiologists Play a Role in the Prevention of Heart Disease Beginning in Childhood?

Foreword

For 38 years, Dr. Gerald Berenson, through his Bogalusa Heart Study, has meticulously and scientifically proven that atherosclerosis has its origin in early life. These lesions may accelerate in adulthood, but they begin much earlier and therefore prevention must begin in childhood. The Bogalusa Heart Study has not only documented these facts but also has implemented these findings into a cohesive program that can be implemented by physicians, teachers, and children — our future patients. We as physicians mend but often fail to prevent disease. This study, second in longevity only to the Framingham Study, has spawned staggering data, producing more than 1,000 publications and 4 books. It has been recognized appropriately not only nationally but internationally as well.

At 88 years of age, Dr. Gerald “Pops” Berenson is only getting started. He has been a source of great pride to me as well as a professional inspiration and challenge. His lifetime of hard work has and will continue to improve the quality of life for all future generations.

Richard Goldfarb, M.D.

Clinical Professor of Urology

Baylor College of Medicine

Weil Cornell Medicine College