CHOLESTEROL IN CHILDHOOD

This updated statement reviews the scientific justification for the re commendations of dietary changes in all healthy children (a population approach) and a strategy to identify and treat children who are at hi ghest risk for the development of accelerated atherosclerosis in early adult life (an individualized approach). Although the precise fractio n of risk for future coronary heart disease conveyed by elevated chole sterol levels in childhood is unknown, clear epidemiologic and experim ental evidence indicates that the risk is significant. Diet changes th at lower fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol intake in children and ad olescents can be applied safely and acceptably, resulting in improved plasma lipid profiles that, if carried into adult life, have the poten tial to reduce atherosclerotic vascular disease.