Take Control of Your Cholesterol Tips
Tips to help you and your family deal with the challenges of High Cholesterol.
High Cholesterol Tips >
Expert Q & A
Our expert team of doctors and pharmacists answer questions about High Cholesterol.
Click Here for Answers >
 
 

Is It Possible for Children to Have High Cholesterol?

Is it possible for children to have high cholesterol? What is a normal cholesterol level for a child?

Answer

It is definitely possible for children to have high cholesterol. Some children will have high cholesterol due to known genetic problems, such as familial hypercholesterolemia; some will have high cholesterol due to lifestyle choices, such as lack of exercise and a diet high in cholesterol and fat; and some will have high cholesterol due to both genetics and lifestyle choices. If your child appears to be at risk for high cholesterol, a blood test should be performed.
 
There is no single, absolute cholesterol level that is normal for all children. For a child with no other risk factors, a higher level may be acceptable. For a child with several risk factors, a lower number is necessary. If you are worried about your child's cholesterol, have a discussion with your child's healthcare provider. Ask if your child's levels are acceptable, and if they are not, what you can do to bring them into a more acceptable range.
 
Related Questions
Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
Other Articles in This eMedTV Presentation