[Prevalence of hypertension in 3154 young students]

Blood pressure (BP) levels were evaluated in 3154 students (mean age 21 years old) of La Plata University, School of Medicine. BP was registered three times in each student and the mean was used for all the analyses. Systolic (SBP) and diastolic pressure (DBP) were significantly higher in men. Mean SBP was 126 +/- 13 mm Hg for men and 115 +/- 11 mm Hg for women. Mean DBP was 77 +/- 10 mm Hg and 74 +/- 9 mmHg for men and women, respectively. The global prevalence of HBP (BP > or = 140 and/or 90 mm Hg) was 12% when both sexes were considered together, but it was significantly higher in men than in women (20% and 6% respectively; p < 0.001). Mean BP corresponding to the 95th percentile in each sex was also estimated. Taking these values to define high blood pressure (HBP) the cut-off point between normal and HBP will be different for each sex (148/93 mm Hg for men and 133/88 mm Hg for women). The prevalence of HBP in this survey is high if we compare with that of the NHANES III (1988-91, USA, 2%) for a group of the same age. However, it is very similar to that of NHANES II (1976-80, USA, 12%), before the intensification of educational and primary prevention programs took place. The global prevalence of optimal BP (BP < 120/80 mm Hg) was just 44%. The relation between Body Mass Index (BMI) and BP levels was also studied, and the result was a positive correlation, statistically significant. Mean BP increased 1.16 mm Hg per unit of increase of BMI. When asking about family history (only mother or father) of HBP we could not find any significant difference between the students with HBP and the others. Cardiovascular diseases are the first cause of death in our country and HBP is one of the most important risk factors. The high prevalence of HBP in this young population must be considered when planning health care programs.