study of some atherogenic risk factors in children

Atherosclerosis is a multifactorial reversible disease in childhood age. So, the early identification of young high risk population offers an opportunity for the early initiation of preventive measures [Kwiterovich, 1989]. This study included 100 children [54 males and 46 females], their ages ranged from 6 to 9 years, they were classified into; a target group [50] with positive family history of premature CAD and a control group [50] without this history. They were subjected to history taking, clinical examination and lab investigations. The results revealed that DM and hypertension were atherogenic risk factors. The target group showed a significant difference regarding TC, LDL-C and LDL-C/HDL-C ratio compared to the control group, again these were potent atherogenic risk factors. Regarding TG and HDL-C, there was no significant statistical difference. The study recommended screening program for children over 2 years, especially those with positive family history of premature CHD to start early preventive measures

Relationship between helicobacter pylori and recurrent abdominal pain [RAP]

H. pylori is an important cause for RAP in children; it is a significant predisposing factor for the development of peptic ulcer, gastric lymphoma and adenocarcinoma [Glassman et al., 1989]. This study was designed to point out the importance of H. pylori as a cause of RAP in children. It included 130 children classified into a target group [65 children with RAP] and 65 healthy children without GIT symptoms as a control group. This study revealed risk factors for H. pylori infection [e.g. RAP, increasing age, unexplained GIT symptoms, family history of peptic ulcer and low socioeconomic standard]. Seropositivity for H. pylori was SS higher than for the control group. It was concluded that serologic tests can be considered ideal for screening children with RAP. It identifies those who warrant further investigation to avoid unnecessary invasive procedures in seronegative children [Gabtree et al., 1991]