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Childhood Hypertension: A Retrospective Analysis of Causes, Treatments, and Complications
Mohamed S Al Riyami1,2, Aisha Al Shuaibi1, Suad Al Jardani1
1Pediatric Nephrology Unit, Department of Child Healthy, Royal Hospital, Muscat P.O. Box 1331, Oman.
Insights
Pediatric hypertension is rising, with secondary causes more common than primary in children aged 1 month to 13 years. Early identification and management are crucial for improving outcomes in childhood hypertension.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nephrology
- Cardiovascular Health in Children
- Public Health
Background:
- Childhood hypertension affects 2-5% of pediatric patients globally.
- Rising incidence of hypertension in children necessitates further investigation.
- This study analyzes pediatric hypertension at a single center.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the prevalence and characteristics of hypertension in children.
- To identify the common causes and complications of pediatric hypertension.
- To evaluate management strategies and outcomes for hypertensive children.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of 129 children (1 month to 13 years) diagnosed with hypertension.
- Analysis of primary versus secondary hypertension prevalence.
- Identification of etiological factors and associated complications.
Main Results:
- Secondary hypertension (79.8%) was more prevalent than primary hypertension (20.2%).
- Renal parenchymal disease was the leading cause of secondary hypertension.
- Cardiovascular and neurological issues were the main complications; 50% showed improved blood pressure post-intervention.
Conclusions:
- Secondary hypertension is more common in children than primary hypertension.
- Pediatricians need enhanced awareness for early hypertension detection and management.
- Further population-based studies are required to understand regional prevalence and outcomes.
Background:
Hypertension is prevalent in the pediatric population, with estimated rates between 2% and 5%, and its incidence is rising globally. This study offers a single-center analysis of hypertension in children.
Methods:
a retrospective chart review was conducted involving children aged 1 month to 13 years diagnosed with hypertension.
Results:
The study included a total of 129 children. Secondary hypertension was identified in 103 patients (79.8%), while primary hypertension was noted in 26 patients (20.2%). Primary hypertension was more common among pre-teen children (50.0%), whereas secondary hypertension predominantly affected those aged 1 to 5 years. Renal parenchymal disease emerged as the most frequent etiology of secondary hypertension, followed by endocrine disorders and vascular issues. No significant correlation was found between hypertension and obesity. The primary complications associated with hypertension in these children were cardiovascular, followed by neurological issues. A small proportion (14.7%) managed their hypertension solely through lifestyle modifications, while the majority required additional antihypertensive medications. At the final follow-up, 50% of the children demonstrated improved blood pressure readings.
Conclusion:
The findings indicate a higher prevalence of secondary hypertension compared to primary hypertension among the studied population. This study underscores the necessity for heightened awareness among pediatricians regarding the early identification and management of hypertension. Larger population-based studies are warranted to further investigate the prevalence, causes, and outcomes of hypertension in this region.
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