Abstract

LOIO, Marisa  and  MAIA, Daniela de Andrade. Screening for dyslipidemias in children and adolescents: the evidence supporting the recommendations. Rev Port Med Geral Fam [online]. 2014, vol.30, n.4, pp.264-267. ISSN 2182-5173.

Recently, several medical societies have published clinical guidelines on screening for dyslipidemias in children and adolescents, including the Portuguese Directorate General of Health in June 2013. These recommendations have emerged in response to the increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity in childhood. Furthermore, studies have shown that the atherosclerotic process can begin in childhood and that children with dyslipidemias tend to maintain lipid profile disorders in adulthood. However, it is uncertain whether screening for dyslipidemias decreases cardiovascular risk, morbidity, and mortality. This article reviews the different screening strategies proposed by the main medical societies, and analyzes the evidence supporting these recommendations. Clinical guidelines on screening for dyslipidemias are not based on studies showing benefit in the reduction of cardiovascular risk, morbidity or mortality. The need to perform this screening should be considered for the individual patient.

Keywords : Dyslipidemias; Mass Screening; Child; Adolescent.

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