title: Coronary risk factors in children.
abstract: Arteriosclerosis and its complications are the leading cause of death in American adults today. There is ample evidence to show that the pathologic process begins process begins in childhood. In addition, coronary risk factors can be identified in childhood and may be maintained to some degree into adulthood. Thus, prevention should logically begin in the childhood years. A small reduction of serum cholesterol levels in all children by a modest change in diet has the potential for reducing coronary risk. More severe dietary restriction, in some cases in conjunction with medication, is recommended for high-risk pediatric populations only. In addition, surveillance of blood pressure, avoidance of cigarette smoking, weight control, and a program of regular physical exercise are prudent recommendations for all children.
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D001794:Blood Pressure; D002784:Cholesterol / Q000097:blood; D003327:Coronary Disease / Q000209:etiology*; D005247:Feeding Behavior; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D012306:Risk; D012907:Smoking; D014481:United States
chemical_list: D002784:Cholesterol