High cholesterol is not just a problem that affects adults. Research has shown that an increasing number of children are also being diagnosed with high cholesterol levels.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends screening for high cholesterol in children between the ages of 9 to 11 and again between the ages of 17 to 21. This article will discuss who should be screened for high cholesterol, why it is important, and when these screenings should take place.

Why is screening for high cholesterol important?

High cholesterol in children can be an early warning sign of future health problems.

If left untreated, high cholesterol can contribute to the development of fatty plaques in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases. By identifying high cholesterol levels early on, interventions can be put in place to promote healthier lifestyle choices and potentially reduce the risk of heart disease later in life.

Who should be screened for high cholesterol?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, screening for high cholesterol should be considered for the following groups:.

1. Children with a family history: If a parent or close blood relative has a history of high cholesterol or heart disease, it increases the likelihood that a child may also be at risk.

2. Children with an increased risk: Certain medical conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure, can increase a child’s risk of having high cholesterol.

Children with these conditions may benefit from cholesterol screening.

3. Children with an unhealthy lifestyle: A sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, and excessive intake of sugary drinks and fast food can contribute to high cholesterol levels in children.

These lifestyle factors should be taken into consideration when determining if a child should undergo cholesterol screening.

4. Children with certain genetic disorders: Some genetic disorders, such as familial hypercholesterolemia, can cause very high cholesterol levels in children.

Early identification of these genetic disorders can help with proper management and treatment.

When should children be screened for high cholesterol?

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the first cholesterol screening between the ages of 9 to 11. At this age, lifestyle modifications can still have a significant impact on cholesterol levels.

If no risk factors are present and the cholesterol levels are within the normal range, a second screening should be conducted between the ages of 17 to 21.

It is important to note: If risk factors or abnormal cholesterol levels are identified in the first screening, additional screenings may be necessary.

The frequency and timing of follow-up screenings should be determined by the child’s healthcare provider based on individual risk factors and cholesterol levels.

What happens during a cholesterol screening?

A cholesterol screening typically involves a blood test that measures various cholesterol markers, including:.

1. Total cholesterol: This is the sum of all cholesterol in the blood, including both “good” (HDL) and “bad” (LDL) cholesterol.

2. LDL cholesterol: Often referred to as “bad” cholesterol, LDL cholesterol is associated with the formation of fatty plaques in the arteries.

3. HDL cholesterol: Commonly known as “good” cholesterol, HDL helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream, reducing the risk of plaque formation.

4. Triglycerides: Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the blood. High levels of triglycerides can contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease.

These blood markers are used to assess the child’s overall cholesterol profile and determine if any interventions or treatments are necessary to reduce the risk of future health problems.

Conclusion

Screening children for high cholesterol is an important step in identifying potential cardiovascular risks early on.

By identifying children with high cholesterol levels, healthcare providers can intervene with lifestyle modifications and, if necessary, pharmacological treatments to reduce future risks. By focusing on at-risk groups and implementing regular screening protocols, we can help promote the long-term health and well-being of our children.