If you think of statins as a medication for older people, think again. An updated guideline released by the American College of Cardiology and 10 other organizations says that people as young as 30 may be candidates for statin therapy.

That's because younger people with a strong family history of premature heart disease, a high 30-year risk for cardiovascular disease, or an LDL cholesterol of 70-189 mg/dL need immediate intervention to maximize their heart health.

The fact that the average LDL level of young adults in the U.S. is around 105 mg/dL and 6% of young adults have an LDL of 160 mg/dL means that millions of younger patients could benefit from statins.

The guideline also says to get your lipoprotein(a) measured and have a noncontrast coronary artery calcium scan for a more accurate assessment of your risks for heart disease — at any age.

I recommend you aim for an LDL of 70 mg/dL or lower if your lipoprotein(a) level is normal or less than 50 mg/dL if your lipoprotein(a) is elevated.

So get your LDL and lipoprotein(a) levels checked, and a calcium scan if indicated. Then start restoring/protecting your heart health with lifestyle upgrades and by taking a statin.

I believe statins are appropriate for kids as young as 6 if there's a familial history of very elevated lipoprotein(a) levels.