1 in 5 US teens at risk of developing heart disease in adulthood

One in five American teens has at least one risk factor for developing heart disease in adulthood, according to a new research. The new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights the need to intervene early.

The report reveals that twenty percent of children and teens in the U.S. have an abnormal lipid profile - a sign of high triglycerides, low levels of good cholesterol or high levels of bad cholesterol - and a strong marker for future heart disease risk.

"Although heart disease is typically diagnosed in adulthood, its roots often begin in childhood. Heart disease is the result of a lifelong process and intervention strategies to reduce risk should begin as early as possible," said Sarah Wally, a dietitian with the National Association for Margarine Manufacturers.

According to Wally, small changes in daily habits are the key to helping young Americans modify their risk of heart disease.

"Incremental changes in diet and exercise habits are much more effective and successful over the long term," she said.

"Something as simple as swapping from butter to a soft spread margarine can have a lasting impact in improving the nutritional quality of your diet," she added.