High Blood Pressure & Obesity in Children

According to a study from BioMed Central Pediatrics, overweight children with a BMI greater than or equal to the 85th percentile, according to growth charts, are twice as likely to be hypertensive. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that obesity in school-aged children has increased from 5 percent to 17 percent over the last 30 years. It is important to understand the relationship between obesity and hypertension in order to prevent chronic health conditions.

Significance

• Scientists do not yet understand the exact mechanism in which obesity causes hypertension. It is thought that the relationship consists of many factors. However, according to Krzysztof Narkiewicz, obesity is one of the most important risk factors in the development of hypertension. Plaque build-up in the arteries also contributes to hypertension, and according to research by the American Heart Association, plaque accumulation in the arteries of some obese children matches that of a 45-year-old adult.

Obesity

• According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, a child is not considered obese until his weight is at least 10 percent greater than what is recommended for his height. (See Resource section.)

Hypertension

• The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute says that hypertension in a child is having a blood pressure equal to or greater than 95th percent of other children of the same age, sex and height. (See Resources section.)

Prevention/Solution

• The CDC says that parental goals should be to reduce excessive weight gain without limiting normal growth and development. Parents can encourage healthy eating habits by providing plenty of fruits and vegetables and limiting junk food. Limiting television and video games and encouraging physical activity help the child reach and maintain a healthy weight. Daily exercise also helps reduce stress and anxiety.

Complications

• Complications of obesity and hypertension in children are heart disease, atherosclerosis, kidney disease, diabetes, poor self-esteem and a shortened life expectancy.