Cholesterol screening in an at-risk pediatric population.
Elevation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is a recognized risk factor for premature atherosclerosis and such elevations have their antecedents in the pediatric population. This study evaluated the frequency of elevated LDL cholesterol in children and adolescents (8-18 years) in whom one parent had a history of premature ischemic heart disease (<55 years). Patients had a fasting lipid profile performed and results were classified as normal, borderline/high, or high in accordance with the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) guidelines. Fifty-two parents had a total of 97 children and adolescents who were eligible for screening. Ninety-three initially consented and fasting lipid profiles were obtained in 82 (84.5%) children. Prevalences of high and borderline/high LDL cholesterol were (7/82) 8.5% and (17/82) 20.7%, respectively. Screening for hypercholesterolemia in these at-risk children and adolescents is prudent and dietary advice must be offered.
O'Grady
Michael Joseph
MJ
Department of Paediatrics, Mayo General Hospital, Castlebar, Ireland. michael_ogrady2001@hotmail.com
Brown
Anne-Marie
AM
O'Neill
Michael Brendan
MB
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D008078:Cholesterol, LDL / Q000097:blood*; D003324:Coronary Artery Disease; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006937:Hypercholesterolemia / Q000097:blood / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000453:epidemiology; D008297:Male; D008403:Mass Screening; D008875:Middle Aged; D015995:Prevalence
D008078:Cholesterol, LDL