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Cholesterol and Kids
Cholesterol in Children
People do not often think about cholesterol in relation to children. Many
researchers believe that this is a mistake, and that cholesterol levels
should be monitored and managed in children. There are many reasons for
their conviction.
There is increasing evidence that atherosclerosis, or the processes and
patterns that lead to it's development, begin in childhood. The process
progresses slowly as the children reach adulthood, and continues into
later life. Important indicators of this belief include the statistics
that show that over 40% of individuals discharged from hospitals for
coronary heart disease treatment are under 65 years of age. Many of these
adults have offspring who themselves have increased risk factors
associated with coronary heart disease.
Learn more about the effects of cholesterol on children below, and read through our website to understand how to minimize the risk to your kids.
Other evidence shows:
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The precursors to atherosclerosis or atherosclerosis itself begin in children
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High cholesterol levels at a young age might contribute to later development of atherosclerosis, leading to heart disease
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Diabetes mellitus should be diagnosed early in it's development and managed effectively as one ages
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Obesity should be managed
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Increased physical activity in children may help prevent the precursors to atherosclerosis
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Eating patterns develop early in life and affect cholesterol levels
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Genetics may play a role in increased risks of high cholesterol and heart disease
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Managing high cholesterol in children may impact successful management later in life
Assessing cholesterol levels in children
Researchers encourage parents to have their children's cholesterol
measured, and to ensure that their children are getting adequate exercise
and maintaining a healthful diet.
Appropriate cholesterol levels for children and young adults aged 2 -
19 years are:
Total cholesterol (mg/dL)
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Acceptable - less than 170
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Borderline - 170 - 199
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High - 200 or greater
LDL cholesterol (mg/dL)
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Acceptable - less than 110
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Borderline - 110 - 129
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High - 130 or greater.
Homepage
|
Lipitor
| About
Cholesterol
|
Cholesterol & the Body
|
Cholesterol & Triglycerides
|
Cholesterol & Dietary Fats
Cholesterol in Children
|
Cholesterol FAQs
|
Understanding Lipids
|
The Lipid Panel Test
|
Web Resources