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Elevated triglycerides in childhood predicted CV events later in life

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American College of Cardiology’s 58th Annual Scientific Sessions

Children with elevated triglycerides may be at increased risk for cardiovascular disease as adults, according to data presented at the American College of Cardiology’s 58th Annual Scientific Sessions in Orlando, Fla.

Baseline and follow-up study results indicated that adults with early-onset CV events tended to have higher levels of triglycerides (127 mg/dL vs. 76 mg/dL; P<.0001) and were more likely to be overweight or obese (BMI 24.3 vs. 20; P=.012) in childhood.

“Pediatric triglycerides are an exceptionally strong independent predictor of early-onset CV events,” John Morrison, PhD, professor emeritus of preventive cardiology at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, said in a press release.

Researchers evaluated 808 school-age children between 1973 and 1976 and followed up again 25 to 30 years later to compare childhood and adult CVD risk factors in participants who did and did not develop CVD later in life. Nineteen participants reported CV events as adults, specifically myocardial infarction, angioplasty and bypass surgery.

Multivariate analysis revealed that adults with a history of CVD were significantly more likely to have diabetes and higher blood glucose (122 mg/dL vs. 90 mg/dL), elevated triglycerides (251 mg/dL v. 135 mg/dL) and a higher BMI (33.2 vs. 28.6) compared with adults free of CVD.

Although there were few cases of CVD in this young study group, data suggested pediatric triglyceride levels and obesity play a role in the development of early CVD, according to the researchers.

“We encourage pediatricians and family practitioners to take notice of elevated levels of triglycerides … and screen for overweight and obesity as indicators of future risk for CVD and initiate early interventions,” presenter Samrat Yeramaneni, MD, clinical research associate at Jewish Hospital Cholesterol Center in Cincinnati, said in a press release. – by Katie Kalvaitis

For more information:

• Yeramaneni S. #403. Presented at: American College of Cardiology’s 58th Annual Scientific Sessions; March 29-31, 2009; Orlando, Fla.