How genetics influence the health and development of youth

Genes have many influences on the health and development of youth. Genes determine the sex of an individual and also control the rate and timing of release of hormones and hormonal changes that occur. Genes can influence health by having an influence on changes in body function, often in response to specific behavioural or environmental influences, such as changes in blood pressure and cholesterol levels as well as glucose regulation. These are biological factors that can have a great influence on disease prevalence. There is also a link between specific genes and a predisposition for certain diseases such as some types of cancers and cardiovascular disease.