Hypertension Among Youths — United States, 2001–2016

Abstract

What is already known about this topic? Elevated blood pressure during adolescence is associated with cardiovascular risk in adulthood. In 2017, the American Academy of Pediatrics released a new guideline that changed the criteria for diagnosing hypertension. What is added by this report? Using the new guideline, an estimated 800,000 additional youths aged 12-19 years (especially older youths, males, and those with obesity) would be reclassified as having hypertension during 2013-2016, compared with using the former guideline. What are the implications for public health practice? Clinicians and researchers transitioning to the new guideline might expect more youths to be classified as having hyperten­sion. Efforts to address hypertension in youths include lifestyle and environmental strategies that promote cardiovascular health.