We've all heard about the dangers of high cholesterol as an adult.

But now, more and more doctors, including those with the American Academy of Pediatrics, say kids are affected too.

Children as young as eight years old can now get cholesterol fighting drugs, to prevent future heart problems.

Doctors say the problem is growing in America's youth.

“The reason kids are having cholesterol problems is because they are obese, and right now we have one third of kids in the United States dealing with obesity,” Rene Santin said.

Santin says Kentucky has more obesity when compared to the rest of the nation.

“I know there is a concern in this area especially with children over weight, fast foods,” Terri Mirilene said.

Santin says the drug should be a last resort, obese children first need to make a lifestyle change with a healthier diet and more exercise.

“So now we are seeing kids that have Cholesterol problems, where as 50 years ago that was unheard of,” Santin said.

Santin says research shows the drugs are safe but more tests are needed to study long term effects. Regular blood work will be required and no one should rely on the medication as a quick fix to a bigger problem.

The use of medications for cholesterol will not stop the obesity epidemic.

It won’t have any impact on stopping the epidemic, which is the source of high cholesterol.

The academy also recommends if your one year old is already overweight; give them low fat milk instead of two percent or whole.