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Cholesterol in Children and Teens

Overview

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

  • Is overweight, Opens dialog.
  • 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, footnote 4

Cholesterol levels for children and teens

For children and teens:footnote 2, footnote 4

Total cholesterol

LDL (bad) cholesterol

Best

Less than 170 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL)

Less than 110 mg/dL

Borderline high

170–199

110–129

High

200 or above

130 or above

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

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, Opens dialog, may be used to help lower cholesterol levels.

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

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.