Prevalence of Childhood Obesity and Hypertension in South of Iran

Abstract

Introduction. Obesity is a growing problem worldwide and is likely a major cause of the increased prevalence of high blood pressure in children. The aim of this study was to investigate the frequency of pediatric obesity and its association with hypertension in a sample of children and adolescents in Fars province (south of Iran).

Materials and Methods. This cross-sectional study was carried out in Shiraz during a period from 2010 to 2011. A total of 2000 healthy students aged 11 to 17 years were included. Data on weight, height, systolic and diastolic blood pressure (measured 3 times with 5-minute intervals), and parental history of hypertension and educational level were obtained. The 95th percentile body mass index for age and sex was considered obesity.

Results. Overall, 7% and 11.8% of the students were obese and hypertensive, respectively. Blood pressure was associated with body mass index. Maternal education level was not associated with hypertension in the child.

Conclusions. In this study, obesity was an important risk factor for hypertension. Our data showed that prevalence of obesity has not been changed in the recent 5 years in Iran, but that of hypertension has risen significantly. The high prevalence of hypertension in overweight and obese children emphasizes the need for prevention and control of childhood obesity and hypertension in early stages.