COMMON CARDIOVASCULAR PROBLEMS IN THE YOUNG .2. HYPERTENSION, HYPERCHOLESTEROLEMIA AND PREPARTICIPATION SCREENING OF ATHLETES

Blood pressure should be measured during health maintenance visits in all children three years of age and older. Cholesterol levels should b e obtained in children with a family history of hypercholesterolemia o r premature coronary artery disease and in children with other risk fa ctors, such as hypertension, smoking or obesity. Preparticipation scre ening for sports participation should include a detailed questionnaire regarding the athlete's personal or family history of syncope, sudden death or arrhythmia, as well as measurement of blood pressure, auscul tation of the heart and evaluation of upper and lower extremity pulses .