A recent study conducted by scientists has revealed that high blood pressure, or hypertension, actually begins in childhood, not just in adulthood. This suggests that the risk of developing hypertension as an adult can be influenced by factors that occur during childhood and puberty.
The research, presented at the European Congress on Obesity in Venice, highlighted the importance of managing a child’s weight to protect them from hypertension as they age. The study indicated a correlation between being overweight during teenage years and high blood pressure in adulthood, particularly between the ages of 50-64. For men, the risk of high blood pressure is associated with being overweight at any age, while for women, the risk starts during puberty.
Dr Lina Lilja from the University of Gothenburg in Sweden suggests that preventing obesity in childhood plays a significant role in maintaining healthy blood pressure later in life. Initiatives and lifestyle modifications aimed at children and teenagers with obesity could potentially reduce the risk of high blood pressure-related conditions such as heart attacks, strokes, and kidney damage.
High blood pressure is a leading cause of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney damage, and is considered one of the most preventable causes of premature deaths globally. Unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, and being overweight or obese significantly contribute to the development of this condition.
According to the World Health Organisation, around 1.28 billion adults between the ages of 30-79 around the world are living with hypertension.
The study, which involved 1,683 individuals, found a strong association between high BMI during childhood and puberty and high blood pressure in midlife (50-64 years of age). The results indicated that an increase in BMI during pubertal years was linked to an increase in systolic and diastolic blood pressure in middle age, independent of childhood BMI.
Dr Jenny Kindblom, a co-author of the study, emphasized the need to address the rising rates of obesity among children and teens. She highlighted the importance of shifting the focus from high blood pressure only in adults to also include younger age groups. The study suggests that hypertension might originate in early life due to factors such as chronic low-grade inflammation, impaired functioning of the blood vessels, and high amounts of visceral abdominal fat.
It is important to note that this study is based on observational findings, and more research is necessary to establish a causal relationship between childhood BMI and the onset of high blood pressure in adulthood.
As we continue to unravel the factors contributing to high blood pressure, it becomes increasingly clear that promoting healthy lifestyles during childhood and teenage years can have a substantial impact on long-term health outcomes. This study serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing childhood obesity and implementing preventive measures from an early age.