Lipid screening and treatment recommendations for children and adolescents.

Atherosclerotic lesions begin in childhood, and the presence and progression of those lesions are associated with cardiovascular disease risk factors, including lipid dyslipidemias. The early identification and treatment of youth with cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors and dyslipidemias can alter the atherosclerotic process. The increasing incidence and prevalence of overweight and obesity in youth and the failure of targeted screening strategies, suggest universal lipid screening is necessary. Universal screening is recommended by recent NIH guidelines as part of a comprehensive approach to reducing atherosclerotic risk for youth. Screening goals include the identification of youth with abnormal lipid levels and/or inherited lipid disorders in order to focus lifestyle and treatment recommendations on those at highest risk for early CVD. Lipid Screening and Treatment Recommendations for Children and Adolescents