The Incidence of Asymptomatic Hypertension in School Children

Abstract

Although hypertension is a well-documented risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, including myocardial infarction and stroke, in adults, only recently has knowledge about childhood hypertension increased significantly. To determine the incidence of asymptomatic hypertension in school-age children. Children in primary school were chosen with a randomized sampling method. During measurement of blood pressure, a calm, comfortable setting was provided. Blood pressure measurements were performed by only 1 researcher. For accurate measurement of blood pressure, recommended standards were followed. A total of 1,963 children were included in the study. The incidence of systolic hypertension and diastolic hypertension were 7% and 2%, respectively. Obesity was present in 10.5% girls with hypertension and 13.9% of boys with hypertension. Our findings indicate that hypertension is an important health problem in children, and its prevalence is quite high. Blood pressure measurements must be a part of routine clinical examinations. Further studies should be performed in high-risk populations to prevent hypertension and to establish methods of early diagnosis and treatment in children.