Childhood Obesity and Blood Pressure Regulation

Chapter
First Online:
Part of the Clinical Hypertension and Vascular Diseases book series (CHVD)

Abstract

Obesity in children and adolescents continues to occur with increasing frequency and has been associated with the development of clinical consequences of obesity such as hypertension. This chapter will begin with a review of the definitions of hypertension and prehypertension in children and adolescents, followed by discussion of the epidemiology of obesity hypertension. After examining the complex relationship between obesity and hypertension and potential mechanisms contributing to the development of obesity hypertension, clinical approaches to the management of hypertension in the setting of obesity are discussed. The clinical management is multifaceted as one must consider that treating obesity may in fact lead to improved blood pressure. Yet, treating obesity takes time and motivation, and while awaiting the effects of changes in lifestyle on blood pressure, use of antihypertensive medications may be indicated in some children.

Keywords

Obesity BMI Prehypertension Hypertension 
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Copyright information

© Springer Science+Business Media New York 2013

Authors and Affiliations

  1. 1.Division of Pediatric NephrologyEmory-Children’s CenterAtlantaUSA

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