New approach for detection of LDL-hypercholesterolemia in the pediatric population: The Fr1dolin-Trial in Lower Saxony, Germany

Abstract Background and aims Lipid disorders are often detected very late, particularly in affected young children. We evaluated the feasibility of a screening for LDL-hypercholesterolemia (highLDL) among toddlers and preschoolers. Methods Population-based screening has been offered to all children (2–6 years) living in the State of Lower Saxony, Germany, with capillary blood sampling for detection of elevated LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C ≥ 135 mg/dL). Positive results were confirmed by a second measurement. Follow-up in specialized centers, including disease specific counselling and extended diagnostics, as well as evaluation of psychological distress of the parents, is carried out longitudinally. Results Up to March 2018, 5656 children have participated in the screening program. 5069/5656 children have completed the screening for highLDL (52.0% boys; median age: 4.0 years [Interquartile range, IQR 3.0–5.1]; mother age: 35 years [IQR 31–38]; father's age: 37 years; [IQR 33–42]). HighLDL was identified in 112 children (2.2%; 40.2% boys; LDL-C 157.6 ± 29.5 mg/dL, mean ± SD). In the total cohort, parents stated in 40.9% of the cases a positive family history for hyperlipidemia and in 29.9% a premature cardiovascular event. Children with highLDL had more often both risk factors in their family history; however, in 37% of them none of these factors were reported. Conclusions The first results of the screening program showed its feasibility and revealed high prevalence of highLDL in the general population. Furthermore, a large proportion of families of affected children were not aware about their lipid disorders.