Prevalence of Elevated Blood Pressure in Children and Adolescents Aged 7–17 Years Old and Its Association with Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension — China, 2021

Abstract

Introduction: To investigate the prevalence of elevated blood pressure (EBP) and its association with Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) adherence among Chinese children and adolescents, providing evidence for dietary interventions targeting pediatric hypertension. Methods: Data were derived from the “National Survey on Nutrition and Health of Children Aged 0–18 Years,” a key project under China’s 13th Five-Year Plan for National Science and Technology Infrastructure. DASH scores were calculated using standardized criteria, and multivariable logistic regression models were employed to evaluate associations between EBP and DASH adherence. Results: The prevalence of EBP in 7–17-year-olds was 15.4%. The median DASH score was 24 points, with the highest adherence tertile (T3) exhibiting a lower prevalence of EBP (14.9%) compared to T1 (lowest adherence) (16.2%) and T2 (moderate adherence) (15.2%). In the fully adjusted model (Model 2), adolescents aged 13–17 years in the T3 DASH adherence group showed reduced risk of EBP [odds ratio (OR)=0.78, 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.60, 0.98] relative to T1. Conclusion: Higher DASH adherence is associated with reduced EBP risk in adolescents aged 13–17 years, emphasizing the protective role of DASH-recommended foods in promoting cardiovascular health.