Homocysteine in a multi-ethnic sample of school-age children

Cardiovascular disease is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States and other developed countries; arterial lesions that are precursors of disease begin during childhood. Homocysteine levels have been associated with cardiovascular disease rates in adults, but information about levels in and impact on children is limited, particularly among various ethnic groups. This study examined the cardiovascular risk factors of a multi-ethnic sample of 100 9-15 year-old Native American, Hispanic, White, and mixed race children in rural central Washington. The mean fasting homocysteine level was 5.82 micromol/l (+/- 1.47), with no significant differences noted among ethnic groups. Mean dietary intake of folate, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 exceeded current Recommended Dietary Allowances. Homocysteine levels did not show statistically significant correlations with cardiovascular risk factors. Homocysteine levels were not found to be a cardiovascular risk factor of importance, nor were significant ethnic differences found, in Native American, Hispanic and White children consuming adequate diets.