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Updated: May 23, 2026

Evaluation of the Cognitive Performance of Hypertensive Patients with Silent Cerebrovascular Lesions
Published on: April 23, 2021
The effects of hypertension on cognitive function in children and adolescents
Stephen D Cha1, Hiren P Patel, David S Hains
1Pediatric Nephrology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA.
Insights
Hypertension in children can impact cognitive function, potentially causing issues with attention and executive functioning. Early screening for these cognitive effects is crucial for better long-term outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nephrology
- Neuroscience
- Cardiovascular Research
Background:
- Hypertension affects 3-4% of children, posing risks for end-organ damage.
- Cognitive effects of pediatric hypertension are under-researched despite potential impacts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the association between hypertension and cognitive dysfunction in children.
- To advocate for increased cognitive screening in hypertensive pediatric populations.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent studies investigating cognitive effects in hypertensive children.
- Analysis of reported cognitive symptoms and potential screening methods.
Main Results:
- Pediatric hypertension is linked to headaches, sleep disturbances, anxiety, depression, reduced attention, and impaired executive functioning.
- Existing research suggests a need for more comprehensive cognitive assessment in this group.
Conclusions:
- Cognitive deficits secondary to hypertension may be detected through increased use of cognitive tests in children.
- Further research is essential to understand and manage the cognitive sequelae of pediatric hypertension for improved long-term health outcomes.
Abstract:
Hypertension (HTN) is found in about 3-4% of the pediatric population with long-term risks of end organ damage if untreated or poorly controlled. Although children with HTN are being more frequently screened for end organ damage (i.e., LVH), the cognitive effects of HTN and methods to screen for cognitive dysfunction have not been extensively explored. In recent years, there have been a small number of studies that have provided important insights that can guide future research in this area. These studies show that HTN can be associated with headaches, restlessness, sleep disturbance, anxiety, depression, decreased attention, and also poor executive functioning. By increasing the utilization of cognitive tests in hypertensive children and adolescents, important cognitive defects secondary to HTN may be detected. More research is needed in the area, and the results of future studies could have far reaching implications for long-term outcomes in hypertensive children and adolescents.
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