HTN In Pediatric

Srishti Saha

MSC CLINICAL NUTRITION, NET,SET

Prevalence of Pediatric Hypertension:

Recent data from national surveys shed light on the increasing prevalence of hypertension in children and adolescents. In the United States, the prevalence of prehypertension or hypertension among teenagers has risen by 38% compared to previous data from the late 1980s and early 1990s(1) The survey revealed that 19 2% of adolescent boys and 12 6% of teenage girls exhibited prehypertension or hypertension Similarly, the Comprehensive National Nutrition Survey (CNNS) conducted in India highlighted a concerning trend, indicating that 35% of 10- to 12-year-olds and 25% of 13- to 19-year-olds had stage 1 or 2 hypertension, based on the 2017 American Academy of Pediatrics cut points(2)

Diagnostic Criteria for Pediatric Hypertension:

Pediatric hypertension is defined as systolic or diastolic blood pressure exceeding the 95th percentile for age, gender, and height, confirmed on at least three separate occasions, spaced 1-3 weeks apart Prehypertension is categorized as systolic or diastolic blood pressure falling between the 90th and 95th percentiles. Additionally, adolescents with blood pressure value higher than 120/80 mm Hg but below the 95th percentile are also considered to have prehypertension The severity of hypertension determines the management approach, and it can be further classified into stages

Stages of Pediatric Hypertension:

Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, has emerged as a leading cause of premature death worldwide. Alarmingly, the prevalence of hypertension among children and teenagers has significantly increased in the past 15 years Epidemiological studies indicate a noticeable rise in the occurrence of high blood pressure in this age group, posing a substantial health concern This article delves into the prevalence, diagnostic criteria, and management strategies for pediatric hypertension, highlighting the importance of lifestyle modifications for its prevention and treatment

Stage 1 Hypertension: This stage refers to systolic or diastolic blood pressure values exceeding the 95th percentile and up to 5 mm above the 99th percentile Blood pressure readings falling within this range should be rechecked at least twice within the next 1-3 weeks, or sooner if symptomatic, before a diagnosis of sustained hypertension is made.

Stage 2 Hypertension: In this stage, systolic or diastolic blood pressure values are 5 mm or more above the 99th percentile Confirmation of stage 2 hypertension requires a repeat measurement during the same visit Patients falling into this category require further evaluation within one week, or immediately if symptomatic(3).