Hypertension in the young.

Abstract

Hypertension in childhood and adolescent is increasing and it is not a benign condition. Obesity and other lifestyle factors, such as physical inactivity, increased-intake of high calories and high salt food, are major determinants for this trend. Body mass index, hypertension, left ventricular hypertrophy and early coronary disease appear to be a correlation in adolescence. There are the evidences that high blood pressure can be tracked from childhood into adulthood, increasing the risks of coronary heart disease, stroke and end-stage renal disease. The early identification, proper evaluation and appropriate management of hypertension in children can reduce the associated long-term morbidity and mortality.