Childhood hypertension. An update on etiology, diagnosis, and treatment.

In the general population, an estimated 70% or more of premature morbidity can be attributed to tobacco use, undertreatment of hypertension, and obesity. From a public health perspective, health-related behaviors that reduce the risk for cardiovascular disease should be encouraged for all children and their families. Pediatricians are obligated to accurately and frequently monitor patients' blood pressures. When discovered, elevated blood pressure should be appropriately investigated, with the evaluation being tailored to the age of the child and to the severity of the blood pressure elevation. Investigation should focus on not only a search for a cause but also target organ effects. Timely recognition of abnormal blood pressure and appropriate interventions are necessary to affect the future development of cardiovascular and renal morbidity and mortality.