Children’s High Cholesterol

Prior to 2017, the WV CARDIAC Project screened fasting lipid profiles on thousands of 5th grade children in West Virginia. We identified a small number of children who have a genetic disease that predisposes them to early heart problems known as Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH). It is further described below.

Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH)

This form of hypercholesterolemia is an inherited disorder which causes cholesterol levels to be elevated. High cholesterol creates plaque formation on the walls of the arteries that can lead to heart attacks early in life. Approximately 1 in 250 people have FH. Immediate relatives of a person with FH have a 50% chance of having FH also. Adults and children with total cholesterol levels of 175 mg/dl or greater and/or LDL (bad cholesterol) of 190mg/dl or greater, AND with normal triglycerides most likely have this genetic condition.

Familial Combined Hypercholesterolemia (FCH)

This form of hypercholesterolemia is also an inherited disorder, although the genetics of this condition are less understood than those of FH. FCH causes high cholesterol that can lead to early heart attack It is more common than FH, occurring in 1 in 100 people. Other factors such as excessive weight and high blood pressure may be associated with FCH. Adults and children with total cholesterol levels of 230mg/dl or greater and/or LDL (bad cholesterol) of 150mg/dl or greater AND total triglycerides greater than 150mg/dl most likely have this genetic condition.

What are the implications of these diagnoses for my child?

If your child has been diagnosed with very high cholesterol, it is important to see a specialist. Without treatment, children with cholesterol problems are much more likely to develop coronary heart disease by the time they are middle aged - which is preventable with appropriate therapy.

What should I do?

You should seek treatment for your child's inherited cholesterol condition from a specialist.

WVU Medicine Children's offers several specialty clinics, including a lipid clinic, that work with children, families, and providers to conveniently deliver care, support, and resources. Please visit the following website for information about WVU Medicine Children's pediatric cardiology clinics, with several outreach clinics across the state of West Virginia: https://childrens.wvumedicine.org/services/specialty-care/cardiology, for when it can be a challenge to drive to the main campus.