Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is often called a “silent killer.” Many people, including children, may not show any symptoms until a serious health issue, like a heart attack or stroke, occurs. This is especially concerning for kids, as many adults still think hypertension only affects the elderly.
Recent studies show that childhood hypertension is rising steeply. Over the last 20 years, rates have nearly doubled worldwide, and South Africa is seeing alarming numbers. Studies conducted in 2024 and 2025 reveal that South African children’s blood pressure often exceeds global averages. Even those flagged as “high normal” are at risk, impacting their heart, kidneys, and arteries.
Dr. Errol Gottlich, a pediatric nephrologist from Johannesburg, points out that the main issue isn’t an epidemic of hypertension itself but rising rates of childhood obesity. He warns we face “a crisis of poor lifestyle choices and excessive screen time.” This sentiment is echoed by many experts who believe our environment promotes unhealthy habits.
Obesity leads to hypertension and begins young. With busy lives, many families opt for inexpensive, processed foods over healthier meals. Dr. Gottlich highlights that these choices are often more accessible for working parents. As children exercise less, obesity becomes a barrier to physical activity, creating a vicious cycle.
Many factors contribute to this situation: lack of safe play areas, increased screen time, and various health issues like low birth weight and maternal health problems affect children from birth. These influences increase hypertension risk before kids even start school.
Why isn’t childhood hypertension taken more seriously? Here are some reasons:
- Most children with hypertension feel fine. Symptoms often get overlooked as normal stress or growing pains.
- Measuring blood pressure accurately in kids is tricky. It requires the right equipment and calm conditions, which aren’t always available in low-resource settings.
- There’s a lack of data and awareness. Many countries lack guidelines for monitoring childhood hypertension.
- Many still believe hypertension is rare in kids, an outdated notion.
Dr. Gottlich estimates that many cases of childhood hypertension remain hidden due to a lack of awareness among healthcare providers. This emphasizes the need for regular health check-ups, including blood pressure monitoring starting from the age of three, particularly for children at risk.
When doctors do identify elevated blood pressure, it’s crucial to address it. Many kids will be given lifestyle advice, but if parents don’t support this change, medication may be necessary. Dr. Gottlich also warns that hypertension often has “memory.” Kids with high readings are more likely to struggle with high blood pressure as adults, leading to long-term health issues.
Health systems across low- and middle-income countries are already battling infectious diseases; adding a generation with elevated hypertension risks could worsen this burden. According to data, nearly half of adults in the U.S. have hypertension, indicating a similar trend might be underway globally. It’s essential to address these health issues now, as some changes are difficult to reverse.
The solution may seem straightforward: healthier lifestyle choices. However, experts believe systematic changes need to be made. This includes regulating food industry practices, enhancing school meal quality, and creating safe recreational spaces for kids.
Raising awareness about childhood hypertension is critical. Every spike in a child’s blood pressure is a warning of potential future health problems. The goal is to shift the focus from immediate symptoms to a proactive approach, emphasizing long-term well-being. By understanding and addressing childhood hypertension today, we can prevent a larger health crisis tomorrow.
For parents and caregivers, keeping an eye on blood pressure and promoting healthier habits can lead to a brighter future for children. As we listen to these silent signals, we can work towards a healthier generation.
Source link
urbanisation health impact,exercise and hypertension,hypertension prevention children,urbanisation and health,Hypertension,high blood pressure,silent killer,paediatric hypertension,childhood obesity,poor lifestyle,Morningside Mediclinic,Wits University Donald Gordon Medical Centre,ultra-processed food,high salt intake,processed foods,cardiovascular,paediatric thresholds,paediatric nephrologists,dialysis,kidney transplant
