Dietary pattern and blood pressure levels of adolescents in Sohag, Egypt.

BACKGROUND

Poor eating patterns formed early in life may lead to health problems in later years. These poor dietary habits are carried over into adolescence in Upper Egypt. The study aimed to assess the relationship between dietary pattern and blood pressure levels of adolescents in Sohag as one of Upper Egypt Governorates.

PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS

A comparative cross-sectional study was carried out on 300 school students of both sexes between 12 and 18 years of age in Sohag. Schools from one educational district were stratified into private or public and boys or girls sectors. From each stratum, about 35-40 students were selected from one class at random. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, medical history, lifestyle, and dietary habits and intake were collected from each student. Anthropometric measurements and both systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were taken at the time of the interview.

RESULTS

Hypertension was detected among 7.7% of the adolescents studied and prehypertension was detected among 34% of the adolescents. The entire studied sample consumed energy, protein, and sodium that exceeded their daily requirements, whereas their intake of potassium was less, with no statistically significant difference. The prehypertensive group consumed the highest daily intake of energy, macronutrients, sodium, and potassium. High BMI and low consumption of fruits and vegetables were associated with increased SBP and DBP. High consumption of chips was a predictor for increased SBP, whereas daily consumption of soft drinks was a predictor for increased DBP.

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

The study revealed significant association between the unhealthy dietary pattern and the risk of hypertension and prehypertension among adolescents in Sohag. Changes in their eating habits and dietary intake are highly recommended. Implementing a comprehensive nutrition promotion program has the potential to decrease the risk of hypertension during adulthood.