Cholesterol Screening Critical for Active Youth Health

February is recognized as American Heart Month, a period dedicated to raising awareness about heart disease and high cholesterol. Medical professionals emphasize that prevention can begin in childhood, highlighting the importance of cholesterol screening even for seemingly healthy children.

In Salt Lake City, siblings Max, 16, and Tess, 14, exemplify active youth, with Max participating in lacrosse and Tess on the varsity cheer squad. Despite their athleticism, their father’s history of heart disease prompted early cholesterol testing. Their mother, Celeste, remarked, “They are healthy, active kids that you would never guess had high cholesterol.”

Many adolescents, despite appearing fit, can have hidden risk factors for heart disease, such as elevated cholesterol levels. According to Dr. Adam Ware, a pediatric cardiologist at Primary Children’s Hospital, lipid tests are crucial for many children as they measure cholesterol and fats in the blood. He stated, “Unless you are screened, you would never know that you could have really high and dangerous levels of cholesterol.” Early identification of these issues can lead to preventative measures that significantly reduce future heart attack risks.

Dr. Ware emphasized that heart disease is not an overnight development; rather, it builds gradually over time. Risk factors contributing to heart disease include high blood pressure, high blood sugar, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle, in addition to high cholesterol levels.

To help families manage cholesterol levels, Dr. Ware advises implementing lifestyle changes. He typically recommends avoiding sugary drinks, increasing fiber intake, and minimizing processed foods. “I think trying to make small, positive changes over time is really important,” he noted. Max added, “Drinking soda is not the best — so more water, things like that.”

Physical activity and adequate sleep also play vital roles in maintaining heart health. In some cases, healthcare providers may prescribe medications such as statins to help manage cholesterol levels. Kevin, the father of Max and Tess, commented, “It’s really just living healthy and making sure you get the right medication to support it.”

For the siblings and their parents, understanding their cholesterol levels has empowered them to take charge of their health. Tess expressed relief, stating, “It’s nice that we got tested early, so we don’t have to worry about heart diseases later on in life.”

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends lipid testing for children aged 9 to 11 and again between 17 and 21. This proactive approach aims to identify at-risk youth before they develop significant health issues.

As more families become aware of the risks associated with high cholesterol, the hope is that early screening will become a standard part of childhood healthcare, paving the way for healthier futures.