High cholesterol in childhood? What you need to know to protect children's health

When we think of high cholesterol, we usually associate it with adults. But the reality is that this problem can also appear in childhood and adolescence and bring risks that extend into adulthood. According to experts, detecting an increase in serum cholesterol levels early on and adopting preventive measures are essential actions to reduce cardiovascular complications in the future.

What is cholesterol anyway?

Cholesterol is a fundamental fat for the body, used in the formation of cells, hormones and vitamins. The problem occurs when levels are high, especially LDL ("bad cholesterol"), which can accumulate in the arteries and form fatty plaques.

HDL ("good cholesterol"), on the other hand, plays a protective role, as it helps to remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream. Triglycerides (TG), on the other hand, when high, also increase the risk of developing heart disease.

This combination of alterations is called dyslipidemia (DLP).

Causes of high cholesterol in children

According to the Brazilian Society of Pediatrics (SBP), cholesterol concentrations can rise due to two main factors:

• genetics: in rare cases, diseases such as familial hypercholesterolemia maintain high cholesterol levels even in children with good lifestyle habits;
• lifestyle: is the most common cause, linked to a sedentary lifestyle and a diet rich in fried foods, sweets, soft drinks and ultra-processed foods.

It's worth noting that thin children can also have high cholesterol, especially in cases of genetic predisposition.

How and when to diagnose

The laboratory blood test called a lipid profile measures the concentrations of total cholesterol, LDL, HDL and triglycerides. According to the guidelines:

• all children should have their first examination between the ages of 9 and 12, before they reach puberty;
• children with obesity, diabetes or a family history of diabetes should start being monitored earlier, between the ages of 2 and 8;
• Today, fasting is no longer necessary to take the test.

In cases of suspected familial hypercholesterolemia, LDL levels can exceed 190 mg/dL in children (an isolated measurement is not sufficient for diagnosis, so it is necessary to monitor the patient). In addition, a history of early heart attacks or sudden death in family members should be taken into account.

Prevention and examinations

The good news is that, in most cases, high cholesterol in children can be controlled with lifestyle changes.

Food

• Choose fruit, vegetables, fish, chicken, milk and low-fat cheeses.
• Avoid fried foods, filled cookies, cakes, soft drinks and ultra-processed foods in general.

Physical activity

• Reduce your time in front of screens.
• Encourage outdoor play, regular sports and activities that keep children moving.

Medical follow-up

• In cases of familial hypercholesterolemia, changing habits alone may not be enough. The use of medication may be indicated by the specialist, depending on age and cardiovascular risk.

Want more tips on prevention? See also: taking care of children's health

High cholesterol in childhood is silent, but the consequences can appear in the future, with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. That's why prevention should start early, with regular check-ups, routine examinations and the adoption of healthy daily habits.

Taking care of children's health today means ensuring that they grow up stronger, more active and prepared for tomorrow.

Source:
https://jornal.usp.br/atualidades/colesterol-alto-nao-preocupa-somente-adultos-mas-tambem-criancas/
https://www.sbp.com.br/pediatria-para-familias/doencas/colesterol-aumentado-em-criancas/
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1soj_iH1A1NUa9KKNgHYHeb2XWzpLpNeR/view
https://www.endocrino.org.br/media/sbd_sbem_ebook_(2)_(1).pdf