Childhood Hyperlipidemia: Causes, Risks & Early Screening

Hyperlipidemia occurs when a high amount of cholesterol and fat circulates in your blood. When children develop this condition, they risk serious health problems later in life. Some causes of hyperlipidemia can be controlled, but others cannot.

Significance

• Children with hyperlipidemia will likely have high cholesterol during adulthood, which can cause heart disease, artery damage and other cardiovascular problems.

Time Frame

• Outside of school, screening for hyperlipidemia should begin at age 2 and continue routinely until children reach age 5. If schools profile for cardiovascular risk, children should be screened from ages 6 to 10.

Risk Factors

• A family history of hyperlipidemia places children at the greatest risk. A diet high in sugars, fats and cholesterol is another risk factor.

Treatment

• Doctors will generally prescribe healthy eating habits and exercise for children with hyperlipidemia. Severe cases of hyperlipidemia require medication.

Expert Insight

• According to Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, the entire family should help a child with hyperlipidemia to eat healthy and exercise.