The influence of birthweight on arterial blood pressure of children.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: This study examined the relationship between birthweight and blood pressure in childhood.

METHODS

Prospective cohort study involving 472 Brazilian children ranging in age from 5 to 8 years. Birthweight, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), body mass index (BMI), total cholesterol and fractions (LDL-c, HDL-c), and triglycerides were determined. Total cholesterol, LDL-c, HDL-c, and triglycerides were assessed by automated enzymatic methods. Blood pressure was measured with the HDI/Pulse Wave CR-2000 equipment. Multiple regression models were used to investigate the relationship between birthweight and SBP and DBP, controlling for the following variables: gender, age, BMI, total cholesterol, triglycerides, per capita income, and maternal education.

RESULTS

When adjusting for gender and BMI, we found a systolic blood pressure increase of 2.9 (95% CI=-5.33 to -0.56) mmHg per kilogram birthweight reduction. The unadjusted association was insignificant.

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest that low birthweight is one of the factors contributing to blood pressure elevation at early ages. A way to prevent these diseases is by implementing public policies focused on good nutrition and adequate prenatal care for pregnant women.