Is Hypertension Undertreated in Pediatrics?
Pediatric hypertension is often underdiagnosed and undertreated, leading to potential long-term health issues. Experts highlight the challenges in accurate diagnosis and treatment due to limited clinic time and incorrect blood pressure measurements. Recent studies indicate that children are prescribed antihypertensive medications less frequently than adults, emphasizing the need for improved treatment strategies.
- ▪Research indicates that many families lack information about hypertension risk factors and treatment options.
- ▪Only 4.2% of children were prescribed combination antihypertensive medications compared to 19.3% of adults.
- ▪The study found that fewer children than adults received angiotensin II receptor blockers, beta-blockers, diuretics, or calcium channel blockers.
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Research on managing pediatric hypertension is sparse, and securing an accurate diagnosis is challenging, according to experts. Recent studies suggest that many families are underinformed about hypertension risk factors and treatment options.Pediatric hypertension is a significant concern because it can persist into adulthood and contribute to cardiovascular complications and shorter life expectancy, said Catherine Haut, DNP, CPNP-AC/PC, FAANP, FAAN, director of nursing research and evidence based practice at Nemours Children's Health in Delaware.
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