HYPERTENSION IN PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN OF ALVAND CITY, IRAN

Abstract

Background- Currently little is known about the prevalence of high blood pressure among Iranian children. Early identification of children at risk for hypertension is a key approach to prevent serious complications. Our goal in this study is to determine the prevalence of hypertension in primary school children of Alvand city, Iran.<br />Methods- In this cross-sectional study, the levels of systolic and diastolic blood pressure were measured and the prevalence of hypertension among 840 primary school children (7-12 years) determined. The children were selected through a double-stage randomized sampling method while divided into six different age groups. The blood pressure was measured by means of standard equipment. Data were analyzed using statistical methods.<br />Results- Out of 840 children, 410 (48.8%) were male and 430 (51.2%) female. The average systolic and diastolic blood pressure among both sexes increased with increasing age. Except in one age group, there was no significant difference between the systolic blood pressure between the two genders; however, a significant difference was found when the diastolic pressure in 4 age groups was compared (P<0.05). The prevalence of systolic and diastolic hypertension among boys and girls was 6.15% and 3.4%, respectively.<br />Conclusion- This study revealed that the prevalence of hypertension in primary school children in the city of Alvand is noticeable. Hence, it is necessary to measure the blood pressure on a regular basis for early detection of hypertension.