Big news today from the American Academy of Pediatrics that’s sure to spark lively debate. They have released the strongest guidelines ever to treat children with Cholesterol problems in an attempt to ward off future heart disease. About one third of American children are considered overweight; nearly 20 percent obese.
For the first time, the Academy recommends screenings begin as young as two years old, and that children as young as eight might need cholesterol fighting drugs.
"The Takeaway" talks to Dr. Peter Jung, who is a pediatrician at Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston, Texas; as well as a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Dr. Jung says he’s "skeptical" about the use of cholesterol medication for children.
"The Takeaway" is PRI’s new national morning news program, delivering the news and analysis you need to catch up, start your day, and prepare for what’s ahead. The show is a co-production of WNYC and PRI, in editorial collaboration with the BBC, The New York Times Radio, and WGBH.
More at thetakeaway.org
The World is an independent newsroom. We’re not funded by billionaires; instead, we rely on readers and listeners like you. As a listener, you’re a crucial part of our team and our global community. Your support is vital to running our nonprofit newsroom, and we can’t do this work without you. Will you support The World with a gift today? Donations made between now and Dec. 31 will be matched 1:1. Thanks for investing in our work!