Elevated Blood Pressure in Low-Income, Rural Preschool Children is Associated with Maternal Hypertension during Pregnancy

ABSTRACT

Hypertension (HTN) is a significant public health problem in adults, and rates of HTN are rising in children as well. The purpose of this study was to determine blood pressure (BP) and body mass index (BMI) levels in low-income, rural preschool children and investigate the relationship between child and maternal factors that impact BP and BMI in these children. Results indicated high rates of overweight/obesity and elevated BP levels in this sample. Maternal hypertension during pregnancy also emerged as a predictor of elevated BP in their children.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the The University of Alabama Research Grants Committee and The University of Alabama Capstone College of Nursing.