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Low birth weight and risk of hypertension in African school children

B Longo-Mbenza1, R Ngiyulu, M Bayekula

  • 1Lomo Medical, Kinshasa-Limete, Democratic Republic of Congo.

Journal of Cardiovascular Risk
|October 26, 1999
PubMed

Insights

Low birth weight (LBW) is linked to a higher risk of hypertension in African school children. This study found a significant association between LBW and increased blood pressure, highlighting potential long-term health risks.

Area of Science:

  • Developmental origins of health and disease (DOHaD)
  • Pediatric cardiovascular health
  • Public health in sub-Saharan Africa

Background:

  • The programming hypothesis suggests a link between low birth weight (LBW) and adult hypertension.
  • Previous research indicates a correlation between LBW and increased hypertension risk.
  • This study investigates the association between LBW and hypertension in childhood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To examine the relationship between low birth weight and the risk of hypertension in school-aged children.
  • To explore potential programming effects of fetal undernutrition on cardiovascular health.
  • To assess the prevalence of hypertension in relation to birth weight in a Congolese population.

Main Methods:

  • Cross-sectional, semi-urban survey design.
  • Retrospective data collection on perinatal characteristics.
  • Random sampling of 2648 school children in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo.

Main Results:

  • Low birth weight (<2.500 g) was associated with a significantly higher risk of hypertension in African school children (Odds Ratio 2-2.3).
  • Birth weight showed an inverse relationship with both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
  • The association between LBW and hypertension risk was most pronounced in females and adolescents.

Conclusions:

  • Antenatal stress leading to LBW may trigger fetal programming.
  • Fetal undernutrition could predispose individuals to cardiovascular disease and hypertension later in life.
  • Early life factors like birth weight are critical determinants of long-term cardiovascular health.
Abstract

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