Hypertension in Children and Adolescents: A Review of Recent Guidelines

Pediatric hypertension (HTN) is a growing problem worldwide that can be attributed to various risk factors, including the upward trend in obesity and poor lifestyle choices. Pediatric HTN will eventually lead to adult HTN and cardiovascular disease.There is concern that HTN in children and adolescents is often underdiagnosed.This article highlights important risk factors and chronic conditions associated with HTN along with complications such as end organ damage and cardiovascular disease.This article also outlines cost-effective diagnostic evaluations and step-wise treatment options, including non pharmacological interventions such as lifestyle modifications as well as medical management based on the most recent American Academy of Pediatrics Clinical Practice Guidelines.