Hypertension, obesity, and target organ damage in children
https://doi.org/10.66825/2949-4664-apps-3-3-14-25
Abstract
Aim. To study data on the relationship between childhood obesity and hypertension, their effect on target organ damage (TOD), as well as to analyze available therapeutic options.
Materials and methods. We carried out a review of scientific publications presented in Russian and foreign databases (eLibrary, PubMed, Google Scholar, UpToDate). The review depth was five years; the search keywords were «arterial hypertension», «childhood obesity», «target organ damage» both in the Russian and English languages. When analyzing the retrieved data, all publications on the combination of childhood obesity and hypertension, their effect on target organ damage, diagnostic methods, and treatment options were considered.
Results. Despite public health efforts, the prevalence of hypertension and obesity in the pediatric population is constantly increasing. Hypertension and obesity contribute to the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines that activate the reninangiotensin-aldosterone system and the sympathetic nervous system, which leads to negative consequences in the regulation of blood pressure and kidney function. Increased blood pressure triggers adverse changes in the functioning of the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, and retina. Neurocognitive functions may also be impaired. The results of recent studies indicate advances in the treatment of hypertension and obesity in children, which can reduce the risk of damage to target organs in the pediatric population.
Conclusions. Arterial hypertension and obesity have a significant impact on TOD in children. Measures to normalize blood pressure and treat childhood obesity can reduce left-ventricular hypertrophy, improve systolic and diastolic function, as well as kidney function. Proper screening and treatment of these diseases can reduce the potential negative effects on the cardiovascular system in the future.
Keywords
hypertension,
childhood obesity,
target organ damage,
left ventricular myocardial hypertrophy,
pulse wave velocity,
carotid artery intima thickness
Supporting agencies: No external funding was attracted.
About the Authors
N. A. Belykh
Ryazan State Medical University
Russian Federation
Competing Interests:
Russian Federation
Natalya A. Belykh, Dr. Sci. (Med.), Head of the Department of Faculty and Polyclinic Pediatrics
Scopus Author ID: 57193344960
Web of Science Researcher ID: L‑2177–2018
9, Vysokovoltnaya str., Ryazan, 390026
Competing Interests:
The authors declare no conflict of interest
I. N. Lebedeva
Ryazan State Medical University; Regional Children’s Clinical Hospital named after N. V. Dmitrieva
Russian Federation
Competing Interests:
Russian Federation
Inna N. Lebedeva, Cand. Sci. (Med.), Assistant Professor of the Department of Faculty and Polyclinic Pediatrics; , Chief Physician
9, Vysokovoltnaya str., Ryazan, 390026; 1z, Internationalnaya str., Ryazan, 390039
Competing Interests:
The authors declare no conflict of interest
A. M. Marevicheva
Ryazan State Medical University
Russian Federation
Competing Interests:
Russian Federation
Anastasia M. Marevicheva, Assistant of the Department of Faculty and Polyclinic Pediatrics
9, Vysokovoltnaya str., Ryazan, 390026
Competing Interests:
The authors declare no conflict of interest
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For citations:
Belykh N.A., Lebedeva I.N., Marevicheva A.M. Hypertension, obesity, and target organ damage in children. Archives of Pediatrics and Pediatric Surgery. 2025;3(3):14-25. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.66825/2949-4664-apps-3-3-14-25
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