Hypertension in overweight and obese children

Children with pediatric obesity are at increased risk for developing cardiac comorbidities including hypertension. The rise in prevalence of pediatric obesity is likely to result in more referrals for assessment of possible hypertension. It is important for both pediatric caregivers and hypertension specialists to be familiar with the latest recommendations from the National Institutes of Health regarding the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of high blood pressure in children. In addition, it is important to be aware of some of the obesity comorbidities that may be contributing to hypertension, and may alter treatment strategies. The purpose of this presentation is to review the current guidelines and address issues related specifically to hypertension in overweight and obese children.