Blood pressure patterns in Nigerian adolescents

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Public Health
• Cardiovascular Health

Background:

• Adolescent blood pressure is a critical indicator of cardiovascular health.
• Understanding factors influencing blood pressure in urban Nigerian youth is essential for public health initiatives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the average blood pressure in Ibadan adolescents.
• To investigate the relationship between blood pressure and various factors including age, sex, anthropometrics, and socio-economic status.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving pupils from two schools in Ibadan, Nigeria.
• Data collection included blood pressure measurements, anthropometric data (weight, height, skinfold thickness), and parental socio-economic information.
• Statistical analysis was performed to identify correlations and significant differences.

Main Results:

• Mean Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP) was 111.3 mm Hg for males and 112.5 mm Hg for females. Mean Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP) was 60.2 mm Hg for males and 70.7 mm Hg for females.
• Blood pressure increased with age, with older adolescents (16-19 years) exhibiting higher readings than younger ones (12-15 years).
• Positive correlations were observed between Body Mass Index (BMI), pulse, and blood pressure. Adolescents from lower socio-economic backgrounds showed significantly higher SBP and DBP, especially females.

Conclusions:

• Age, sex, body mass index, and socio-economic background significantly influence blood pressure levels in Nigerian adolescents.
• The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to address disparities in adolescent blood pressure based on socio-economic factors.
• This study provides valuable data for public health strategies aimed at promoting cardiovascular health in urban Nigerian youth.