Most epidemiologic studies of risk factors for atherosclerosis have been conducted in adult populations, yet there is now evidence that the vascular disease process begins at a young age. This book reviews recent findings that allow physicians to identify and manage children and adolescents who are at the highest risk for the development of premature cardiovascular disease in later life. It covers cholesterol levels, blood pressure, body size, obesity, coronary artery calcification and carotid artery thickness, and discusses the identification, familial aggregation, tracking and management of each of these risk factors.