Blood pressure distribution in a Hungarian adolescent population: comparison with normal values in the USA

To describe the blood pressure characteristics and distribution of all adolescent high school students (aged 15-18 years) in Debrecen (total population 230 000), Hungary. To define threshold values for normal blood pressure by age-, sex- and height-specific groups. To compare our data with results from a USA meta-analysis, which forms the basis of current guidelines.

All young people attending high school in Debrecen (final sample = 10 359) participated in the study. After they had rested for 10 min, three blood pressure measurements were taken from the right upper arm, separated by 5 min intervals. All measurements were obtained by a validated, automated, digital Omron M4 device.

The 50th, 90th and 95th percentile values of blood pressure were defined by dividing the adolescent population into age-, sex- and height-specific subgroups. In comparison with USA guidelines, in our sample the systolic blood pressure of boys in the different subgroups was 6-11 mmHg greater, whereas this difference was less marked for girls (1-5 mmHg). There were no marked differences in diastolic blood pressure, but our values were slightly lower.

Our findings demonstrate the influence of geographical and ethnic variations on blood pressure. Acceptance and use of non-population-specific blood pressure distributions may lead to under- or overdiagnosis of adolescent hypertension. The use of geographically more relevant data should be encouraged.