American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

At what age should lipid disorder screening start for men?

1. Age 30

2. Age 35

3. Age 40

4. Age 45

The correct answer is: Age 35

Lipid disorder screening for men is recommended to begin at age 35 according to the guidelines provided by the American Heart Association and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. This age is suggested because it allows for early identification of those who may be at risk for cardiovascular disease due to abnormal cholesterol levels and lipid profiles. Starting screening at age 35 helps healthcare providers identify individuals who may benefit from lifestyle modifications or pharmacological interventions to reduce their risk of heart-related issues later in life. Screening before this age may not be as beneficial in terms of risk stratification since lipid profiles can be less stable and more variable in younger populations. Therefore, initiating screening at age 35 aligns with evidence-based recommendations to promote early intervention and improve long-term health outcomes for men.