Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 1, 2026

A Rat Model of Mild Intrauterine Hypoperfusion with Microcoil Stenosis
Published on: January 7, 2018
Can we predict hypertension among preterm children?
Tetyana L Vasylyeva1, Sudha P Chennasamudram, Michael E Okogbo
1Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, USA. tetyana.vasylyeva@ttuhsc.edu
Insights
Prematurity and low birth weight increase hypertension risk in children. Pediatricians often miss these hypertension cases, highlighting a need for increased awareness and early detection strategies.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Cardiovascular Health
- Neonatology
Background:
- Prematurity and low birth weight (LBW) are linked to long-term health issues including hypertension (HTN), ischemic heart disease, and obesity in adulthood.
- Identifying early risk factors for HTN in children born preterm or LBW is crucial for preventative care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify risk factors for hypertension development in children born preterm or with low birth weight.
- To assess the awareness of this issue among pediatric primary care providers.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 160 cases.
- Analysis of risk factors including birth weight, gestational age, and body mass index.
- Evaluation of primary care provider recognition of hypertension in identified cases.
Main Results:
- 22% of preterm/LBW infants developed hypertension by age 15.
- Hypertension risk increased 1.6 times for every standard deviation increase in BMI.
- Infants born small for gestational age and under 1000g had higher risk.
- Only 31% of identified hypertension cases were recognized by primary care providers.
Conclusions:
- Obesity and hypertension appear interconnected in children born preterm/LBW.
- Increased awareness of prematurity/LBW as HTN risk factors is needed among pediatricians.
- Early detection and management strategies are essential for this high-risk population.
Abstract:
Prematurity and low birth weight (LBW) cause hypertension (HTN), ischemic heart disease, and obesity in young adults. The objective of the study was to identify risk factors for the development of HTN in children born preterm or at a LBW and to assess pediatricians' awareness of the problem. A retrospective review of 160 cases was conducted. In total, 22% of babies born preterm/LBW developed HTN by age 15 years. The odds of developing HTN were 1.6 times greater for every one standard deviation increase in body mass index. Higher risk posses for those born small for gestational age and under 1000 g. Of the 35 cases of HTN identified, only 31% were recognized as abnormal by the primary care providers. The development of obesity and HTN appear related in preterm/LBW children. Awareness of prematurity or LBW as a risk factor for HTN should be raised among pediatric primary care providers.
Related Concept Videos
Hypertension III: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Hypertension and Regulation of Blood Pressure
Hypertension I: Introduction
Factors affecting Blood pressure
Physiological Factors:
Regression Toward the Mean
Hypertension V: Nursing Management

