Distinct determinants of systolic and diastolic blood pressure in obese children: A multivariate cluster analysis

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Obesity Research
• Cardiovascular Health in Children
• Nutritional Epidemiology

Background:

• Obesity in children (aged 6-15) is a growing concern, often linked to nutritional status and elevated blood pressure.
• Understanding distinct risk patterns for hypertension in this population is crucial for effective interventions.
• Previous studies often analyze risk factors in isolation, limiting a comprehensive view of hypertension development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the nutritional status and blood pressure of obese children.
• To utilize multivariate cluster analysis to identify specific risk patterns associated with systolic and diastolic hypertension.
• To provide a basis for personalized interventions targeting hypertension in pediatric obesity.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 240 obese children (aged 6-15) underwent assessment.
• Data collected included anthropometric measurements, 24-hour dietary recalls, Mediterranean diet adherence (KIDMED scores), and blood pressure.
• Multivariate cluster analysis was employed to identify interrelated subgroups and distinct risk patterns.

Main Results:

• Elevated systolic and diastolic blood pressure were observed in 17.9% and 23.9% of children aged 13-15, respectively.
• Cluster analysis revealed that systolic blood pressure correlated with BMI and body circumferences (waist, neck).
• Diastolic blood pressure showed associations with protein intake and sleep duration.

Conclusions:

• Multivariate cluster analysis provides a holistic view of interconnected factors influencing blood pressure in obese children.
• Distinct patterns for systolic and diastolic hypertension risk factors were identified.
• This approach facilitates the development of tailored, personalized interventions for pediatric hypertension management.