A child who is overweight, does not exercise much, and does not eat healthy foods may have a higher chance of having high cholesterol. High cholesterol can also run in families.

Cholesterol tests for children and teens

Based on a review of the research, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force does not recommend for or against routine cholesterol screening for children.¹ But the American Heart Association and American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggest that children and teens have their cholesterol levels checked if they have a family history of early coronary artery disease or have other risk factors.^{2, 3}

The AAP suggests that a child's risk of high cholesterol, based on a physical exam and family history, be checked at ages 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 years, and then every year through age 21. The AAP also suggests that a cholesterol screening test is done between the ages of 18 and 21.⁴

Cholesterol levels for children and teens

The American Heart Association has issued the following guidelines on cholesterol in children and teens 2 to 19 years old:⁵

The best HDL (good) cholesterol levels in children and teens 2 to 19 years old are 35 mg/dL and above. For the same age group, triglyceride levels are best below 150 mg/dL.

Treatment for high cholesterol in children and adolescents may include dietary and lifestyle changes or statins.⁶

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