Context

Lipids are typically measured after an 8–12 h fast. Most patients are not fasting when they are initially evaluated by their providers, meaning that a repeat visit is necessary if a fasting blood draw is required. However, if postprandial effects do not substantially alter lipid levels, then a non-fasting blood draw has many practical advantages for clinical practice, particularly in paediatrics where fasting is a challenge. Recent studies in adults have suggested that non-fasting lipids may suffice for initial screening of cardiovascular risk,1,–,5 but data in children are scarce. Therefore, the investigators conducted a large cross-sectional study in children to assess differences in lipid values based …