The risk of high blood pressure in children and adolescents has increased by 27% in the last thirteen years. – according to a report published by the Hypertension magazine, published by the American Heart Association.
A higher body mass index and an excess of salt in the food contribute to this.
Dr. Bernard Rosner from Harvard Medical School in Boston (USA) compared data on over 8,3 children and adolescents (8-17 years old) surveyed in 1999-2008 (National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey) with information on the same age group (3,2 thousand people) surveyed in 1988-1994. He took into account, among others gender, ethnicity, body mass index, waist circumference and salt intake.
Raised blood pressure was more common in boys, but the most noticeable increase in risk was in girls, who were also more likely to be obese. African-American children were 28 percent. more exposed to high blood pressure than white children, and children consuming the most salt – by 36%. more than those who ate the least.
High blood pressure is a risk factor for heart disease, strokes and kidney failure; in the United States contributes to about 350 annually. deaths that could have been prevented. It is dangerous, in part because many people do not know that they have it, says Dr. Rosner. (PAP)
blanket / agt /