Genetics and Fetal Antecedents of Disease Susceptibility

From conception through fetal development, childhood, and adolescence, patterns are established that determine individual susceptibility to disease. Although genetics and related biological factors provide the initial blueprints, environmental, developmental, and social traits, beginning in the womb, interact with and modify this “imprinting.” How and when these factors interact may determine whether individuals start life on a healthy and fully functional path or experience disease manifestations not only in childhood but throughout life. Furthermore, as scientists now believe, the cumulative effects of these events can be passed down to future generations.