Kids Health: Is Your Child Suffering From Hypertension? Know Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and More

Kids Health: Hypertension was thought to be a disorder that mostly affected adults. However, there is an increasing number of cases involving children. In most cases, pediatric hypertension is caused by underlying diseases, such as kidney disease or heart problems. These cases are well understood and have recognized medical explanations. What is more concerning is the growing number of youngsters having high blood pressure without any underlying disease, owing mostly to lifestyle factors such as obesity and poor food habits.

Hypertension in Kids

According to current data, the prevalence of hypertension in children ranges from 4% to 7%, with the risk much higher—up to 20%—among those with high body mass index (BMI). This emphasizes the importance of raising parental and caregiver awareness about good diet, physical activity, and healthy lifestyle choices for children. Routine blood pressure monitoring at pediatric visits, preferably once or twice a year, is important for early detection and effective management of hypertension in children. Early intervention can minimize long-term health risks while improving general well-being.