Learning and attention problems among children with pediatric primary hypertension
Heather R Adams1, Peter G Szilagyi, Laura Gebhardt
1Department of Neurology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA. heather_adams@urmc.rochester.edu
Pediatrics
|November 10, 2010
Summary
Children with sustained primary hypertension face a higher risk of learning disabilities (LDs). This study highlights a significant association between hypertension and neurocognitive issues in pediatric patients.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Health
- Neuroscience
- Cardiovascular Health
Background:
- Sustained primary hypertension in children is a growing concern.
- Neurocognitive deficits, including learning disabilities (LDs), can manifest as school-related problems.
- The link between pediatric hypertension and cognitive function requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the risk of learning disabilities (LDs) in children with sustained primary hypertension.
- To explore the association between pediatric hypertension and neurocognitive challenges.
- To identify potential school-related manifestations of hypertension-related cognitive issues.
Main Methods:
- Evaluated 201 children aged 10-18 referred for elevated blood pressure (BP).
- Classified children into hypertensive and non-hypertensive groups based on sustained elevated BP.
- Collected parent-reported data on provider-confirmed LDs and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Main Results:
- 18% of all children studied had LDs.
- Children with hypertension were significantly more likely to have LDs (18% vs. 9%; P < .001).
- Hypertension remained a significant predictor of LDs even after adjusting for demographics and obesity (OR: 4.1).
Conclusions:
- Children with sustained primary hypertension exhibit a higher prevalence of LDs, irrespective of ADHD.
- Findings support an association between primary hypertension and cognitive function in pediatric populations.
- These results may guide clinical decisions for monitoring and managing cognitive risks in hypertensive children.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects approximately 5-8% of children globally, with around 60-70% of cases persisting into adulthood. ADHD has significant implications for educational attainment, social interactions, and occupational success.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
01:30Hypertension III: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Hypertension is asymptomatic and also referred to as the "silent killer" until it progresses to a severe stage or causes target organ disease. Patients may experience symptoms stemming from the strain on blood vessels and tissues in various organs or the heart's increased workload.Physical exams might show no abnormalities other than high blood pressure. Signs of vascular damage, when present, correspond to the organs supplied by the affected vessels, leading to target organ damage. For...
01:30Blood Pressure
Blood pressure (BP) is the pressure or force of blood exerted on the artery's walls as it circulates through the body. It is essential for maintaining blood flow throughout the body.
The average BP in an adult is typically around 120/80 mmHg (millimeters of mercury). In this measurement, the numerator (120) indicates the systolic pressure, which is the pressure in the arteries during the contraction of the heart's ventricles as blood is expelled. The denominator (80) represents the diastolic...
The average BP in an adult is typically around 120/80 mmHg (millimeters of mercury). In this measurement, the numerator (120) indicates the systolic pressure, which is the pressure in the arteries during the contraction of the heart's ventricles as blood is expelled. The denominator (80) represents the diastolic...
01:18Hypertension and Regulation of Blood Pressure
Hypertension, the most common cardiovascular disease, is diagnosed through repeated measurements of elevated blood pressure. Its risks, including damage to the kidney, heart, and brain, are directly proportional to blood pressure levels. Starting from 115/75 mm Hg, the risk of cardiovascular disease doubles with each increment of 20/10 mm Hg. The diagnosis relies on blood pressure measurements, not on patient symptoms, as hypertension is often asymptomatic until end-organ damage is imminent or...
01:28Hypertension I: Introduction
Hypertension is a widespread, long-term medical condition where blood pressure in the arteries remains elevated. It is characterized by systolic blood pressure readings of 130 mm Hg or above or diastolic blood pressure (DBP) readings of 80 mm Hg or higher. Unmanaged hypertension poses significant health risks, making the distinction between primary (or essential) hypertension and secondary hypertension crucial, as their management and implications vary.Primary HypertensionPrimary hypertension,...
01:30Alterations in Blood Pressure
Alterations in blood pressure, such as hypertension (high blood pressure) and hypotension (low blood pressure), significantly affect human health. Understanding these conditions' classifications, causes, and symptoms is essential for effective management and treatment.
Hypertension (High blood pressure)
Hypertension occurs when blood pressure readings consistently exceed the normal range. It is diagnosed when systolic blood pressure (the top number, indicating pressure while the heart beats)...
Hypertension (High blood pressure)
Hypertension occurs when blood pressure readings consistently exceed the normal range. It is diagnosed when systolic blood pressure (the top number, indicating pressure while the heart beats)...