Differential filial aggregation of coronary risk factors

Blood pressure, cholesterol, ponderal index, uric acid and skin fold of about 500 fathers and their offspring were measured. Fathers and daughters exhibited aggregation on a greater number of these factors than fathers and sons. Daughters of men with high levels of cholesterol, uric acid, skin fold and ponderal index also had high levels for these variables. Sons of comparable men had high level only for ponderal index and uric acid. Investigation of the familial circumstances might provide additional clues toward the understanding of these complex relationships and their role in the etiology of coronary heart disease.