Answer
It is definitely possible for children to have
high cholesterol. Some children will have high
cholesterol due to known genetic problems, such as familial hypercholesterolemia; some will have high cholesterol due to lifestyle choices, such as lack of exercise and a diet high in cholesterol and fat; and some will have high cholesterol due to both genetics and lifestyle choices. If your child appears to be at risk for high cholesterol, a blood test should be performed.
There is no single, absolute
cholesterol level that is normal for all children. For a child with no other risk factors, a higher level may be acceptable. For a child with several risk factors, a lower number is necessary. If you are worried about your child's cholesterol, have a discussion with your child's healthcare provider. Ask if your child's levels are acceptable, and if they are not, what you can do to bring them into a more acceptable range.