Checking Your Child’s Cholesterol

from Shine Newsletter, Summer 2007

One of the many effects of childhood obesity is high cholesterol — and children as young as two-years-old are now receiving this important screening.

Studies show the roots of heart disease begin in childhood. Having high cholesterol levels as a child is a major factor in developing coronary heart disease as an adult.

“If you have a family history of heart disease, let your pediatrician know,” said Stephen Daniels, MD, pediatrician-in-chief at The Children’s Hospital and professor of pediatrics and preventive medicine at the University of Colorado at Denver and Health Sciences Center . “Symptoms of heart disease don’t develop until adulthood, but pediatric cholesterol screenings give physicians and parents the opportunity to help children prevent heart disease now.”

Reversing the Trend

Cholesterol screening is the same test as for adults — a total lipoprotein profile, which requires fasting prior to the test. If high cholesterol levels are detected, increased exercise and an improved diet are recommended to get the levels under control. Medication is also an option for children beginning at 10-years-old.

Your child’s cholesterol should be checked every three months if she is on medication — every six to 12 months if only for diet modification — until levels return to normal. Most children should be retested every three to five years if cholesterol levels are normal.

Know the Numbers

According to the American Heart Association, the ranges of total cholesterol for children two- to 19-years-old are:

For help finding a primary care physician, call The Children’s Hospital ParentSmart! Healthline at (720) 777-0123.