Studies of blood pressures in children, ages 5-14 years, in a total biracial community: the Bogalusa Heart Study.

Abstract

Blood pressure, height, weight, maturation, triceps skinfold thickness, serum lipids and Hb were measured as risk factors for coronary artery disease in 3524 children (93% of the eligible population) in Bogalusa, Louisiana, USA. Nine blood pressures were taken on each child by trained observers with mercury sphygmomanometers (Baumanometer) and Physiometrics automatic recorders in a rigid randomized design in a relaxed atmosphere with other children present. The pressures observed were low compared to reported data. Black children had significantly higher blood pressures than white children. This difference, starting before age 10 yr, was largest in the children in the upper 5% of the pressure ranks. Stepwise multiple regression analysis revealed that this racial difference was significant when measured by an automatic recorder. Body size, expressed by height and by weight/height index, was a strong determinant of blood pressure level. Other positive determinants were blood Hb and external maturation.