Cholesterol in Children and Teens

Topic Overview

A child may have a higher chance of having high cholesterol if he or she:

• Is overweight.
• Does not exercise much.
• Does not eat healthy foods.
• Has a family history of high cholesterol.

Cholesterol tests for children and teens

Your child's doctor may suggest a cholesterol test based on your child's age, family history, or a physical exam.

You can ask your child's doctor if your child should have a cholesterol test. There are different recommendations that doctors may follow.^{footnote 1, footnote 2, footnote 3}

Cholesterol levels for children and teens

For children and teens:^{footnote 2}

The goal numbers for HDL (good) cholesterol and triglycerides can depend on your child's age and gender. But in general:

• HDL (good) cholesterol should be higher than 40 mg/dL.
• Triglyceride levels should be below 130 mg/dL.

Treatment for high cholesterol

Treatment for high cholesterol typically includes changes in diet and increased physical activity. Work with your doctor or a dietitian to make diet changes so that your child can get proper nutrition while trying to lower cholesterol.

Less commonly, medicines, such as a statin, may be used to help lower cholesterol levels.

If you have concerns about your child's cholesterol, talk with your doctor.