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Predictors of higher blood pressure in a clinical setting in normotensive children: a prospective study

Maristela Bohlke1, Fernanda Dullius, Juliana Menezes

  • 1Nephrology Department, Catholic University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil. mbohlke.sul@terra.com.br

Kidney & Blood Pressure Research
|June 27, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Lower birth weight and excess weight in children are linked to higher blood pressure (BP) readings in clinical settings. These factors, along with younger age, predict elevated BP in pediatric patients.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Medicine
  • Cardiovascular Health
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Elevated blood pressure (BP) in children is a growing concern.
  • Identifying predictors of BP in pediatric populations is crucial for early intervention.
  • The white-coat effect, a rise in BP in clinical settings, warrants further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess predictors of higher blood pressure (BP) in normotensive children within a clinical setting.
  • To investigate the association between birth weight, BMI, age, and BP in pediatric patients.
  • To explore the relationship between intrauterine factors and BP response to medical consultation.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective cohort study of 443 children aged 3-12 years in Southern Brazil.
  • BP measurements taken in a clinical setting, with home evaluations for elevated readings.
  • Statistical analysis to identify associations between BP percentiles and factors like BMI and birth weight.

Main Results:

  • Systolic BP percentile was associated with Body Mass Index (BMI) and birth weight.
  • Diastolic BP percentile was associated with birth weight, age, and BMI.
  • Weight excess, low birth weight, and younger age were linked to higher BP in normotensive children.

Conclusions:

  • Lower birth weight and weight excess are significant predictors of higher BP in children in clinical settings.
  • Early life factors, including intrauterine conditions, may influence BP response to medical encounters.
  • Findings suggest a potential link between low birth weight and an increased white-coat effect in pediatric patients.

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