Cigarette smoking-associated changes in blood lipid and lipoprotein levels in the 8- to 19-year-old age group: a meta-analysis

Cigarette smoking is known to contribute to coronary heart disease by altering blood lipids (fats). In adults, cigarette smoking causes an increase in total cholesterol, triglycerides, low (LDL) and very low density lipoproteins (VLDL), as well as decreases in high density lipoproteins (HDL) and apolipoproteins (the protein associated with HDL). Research indicates that low HDL and high LDL levels (a high LDL/HDL ratio) increase the risk for coronary artery disease. These alterations in blood lipids contribute to atherosclerosis, the narrowing of blood vessels, particularly those supplying the heart muscle. To see if these changes also occur in children, all available information on children between eight and 19 years old was reviewed. Children in this age group had 11.8 percent higher triglycerides, 12.4 percent higher VLDL, and 4.1 percent higher LDL. They also had 8.5 percent lower HDL and 3.7 lower total cholesterol. Although these results are similar to those found among smoking adults, except for the higher level of total cholesterol, the percentages were higher among children who smoked. Total cholesterol represents the net shift in the relationship of HDL and LDL and does not necessarily reflect adverse changes in lipoprotein levels. It is unclear whether children between eight and 19 who smoke, have an increased risk for coronary heart disease later in life. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)