Cholesterol Screening Is Urged for Young

NY Times ^ | July 7, 2008 | TARA PARKER-POPE

[neverdem]

But I thought the latest research showed that although the statins lowered cholesterol they didn’t affect the heart attack death rate, and it was presenting a quandry for the docs. Did I dream that, or did I read it somewhere?

Doctors wary after cholesterol drug flop

Data About Zetia Risks Was Not Fully Revealed

New Questions on Treating Cholesterol

Quick, off the top of my head: They lowered LDL-cholesterol more by adding Zetia, aka ezetimibe, to patients already taking zocor, a statin, but they found no improvements in morbidity or mortality numbers. Thus placing the cherished LDL-cholesterol hypothesis at risk. Statins have proven benefits in only some segments of the population. Any corrections are always appreciated.

[Gabz]

Checking cholesterol is one thing and I really have no problem with that. My problem lies within the idea these people are suggesting mandates (you know, government guns) for drugging the kids.

[Gabz]

No problem and will do!!!!

[EGPWS]

The nation’s pediatricians are recommending wider cholesterol screening for children and more aggressive use of cholesterol-lowering drugs starting as early as the age of 8 in hopes of preventing adult heart problems.

That's fine.

When politicians become involved however it's no longer a recommendation for it becomes a political promotion which ALWAYS turns into a mandate paid for by all (including payment toward the skimming off the top politically) for the inflictions of the few.

[Alamo-Girl]

Thanks for the ping!

[grellis]

Mine was 246, now if only I could bowl that good.

That's funny! I golf that good

[grellis]

I have three kids, the oldest is nearing 11. None of them have had their cholesterol checked. Doc has never asked to have it done, and I certainly haven’t.

[secret garden]

It depends on their family history as to when they start checking them. It’s routine to check them before they head off to college or younger if they have serious family history.