Compelling evidence shows that atheroscerotics process (building up of fatty plaque in arteries) begins in childhood and progresses slowly into adulthood. Then it often leads to Coronary Heart Disease, the leading cause of death in many countries. So, elevated cholesterol level early in life can play a role in development of Coronary Heart Disease. There are 3 major Lipoprotein groups which are classified by their density. Very Low Density Lipoprotein (VLDL), Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) and High Density Lipoprotein (HDL).

WHAT ARE THE NORMAL CHOLESTEROL LEVEL OF CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS?

Total Cholesterol (mg/dL):

  • Acceptable: <170
  • Borderline: 170-199
  • High: >200
  • Accpetable: <110
  • Borderline: 110-129
  • High:>130

LDL Cholesterol (mg/dL)

WHICH CHILDREN SHOULD HAVE THE CHOLESTEROL MEASURED?

Currently recommendations developed by American Academy of Pediatrics recommended a screening of all children after 2yrs of age, but before 10years, if the following are presents:

1. Family history of parent or grandparents aged 55yrs or younger which documented myocardial Infarction, Atherosclerosis, Angina Pectoris, Peripheral Vascular Disease or Cerebrovascular Disease

2. History of parent with elevated Total Cholesterol more than 240mg/dl

3.Children who may have increase risk of Coronary Heart Disease irrespective of his family such as those who smoke cigarettes ,are overweight, Obese, Diabetic or have Hypertension.

WHAT ARE THE AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION DIETARY STARTEGIES FOR ALL CHILDREN OLDER THAN 2 YEARS?

1 .Balance Dietary calories with physical activity to maintain the normal growth
2. Engage in 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous play or physical activity
3. Eat vegetable and fruit daily and limit juice intake
4. Use vegetable oil and margarines low in saturated fats and Trans fatty acids instead of butter or most animal fat in the diet.
5. Eat whole grain breads and cereals rather than refined-grain products.
6. Reduce the intake of sugar sweetened beverages and foods.
7. Use non Fat (Skim) or low fat milk and dairy products daily.

 

Dr. Hossein Sardari-Zadeh 

Specialist Pediatrician

Al Hafiz International Hospital

Tel: 04-3990022