Prevalence of Hyperlipidemia in 3-19 years old children and adolescent of Tehran in 2000

Metabolic disorders including obesity, diabetes and lipid metabolism disorders are the major health problems of today. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of lipid disorders in Tehranian children and adolescents.

This study was a descriptive-analytic cross-sectional study. 4114 individuals, 3-19 years old, residents of eastern Tehran (Iran) were randomly selected and interviewed. After physical examination, a blood sample was taken for measurement of serum glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, and HDL.

Of the study population, 1926 (46.8%) were male. Hyperlipidemia was present in 520 (29%) the highest mean of serum cholesterol was found in the 7-10 years old group (17332 mg/dl) and the lowest level was seen in 17-19 year olds (165±33 mg/dl). BMI (body mass index) in hyperlipidemic children was 216 kg/m2 and in the remaining children was 18.74 kg/m2 (P<0.0001). In children with abnormal WHR (waste hip ratio), 174(17.8%) were hyperlipidemic and others 316(11%) (P<0.0001).

This study shows the high prevalence of hyperlipidemia in urban adolescents in Iran. Hyperlipidemia is more prevalent in individuals with higher BMI and abnormal WHR.