Abstract

Hypertension is one of the major and predisposing causes of morbidity and mortality of our age. Obesity is increasing due to the effect of environmental factors on a genetic basis. Essential hypertension is increasing day by day in childhood, a result of the prominent increase in childhood obesity. It is well known that obesity and hypertension are strongly related. The mechanism of hypertension in obesity has been found to be multifactorial. The major mechanisms involved in hypertension are hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance; hyperleptinemia; functional and structural changes of the kidneys; inflammation and oxidative stress; endothelial dysfunction; overactivation of the central nervous system; obstructive sleep apnea; an increase in fructose-related food; the elevation of uric acid levels; and alterations in nitric oxide metabolism. The mechanisms that are involved in the pathophysiology provide important clues for the treatment and follow-up of obese and hypertensive children. If the necessary preventive measures are not taken, childhood obesity might lead to a high-risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular morbidity and mortality for adult individuals in the future

Keywords: Children, Hypertension, Obesity

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How to cite

1.
Akçaboy M, Buyan N. Mechanisms of Hypertension in Childhood Obesity. Turk J Pediatr Dis [Internet]. 2017 Jun. 1 [cited 2025 May 25];11(2):144-50. Available from: https://turkjpediatrdis.org/article/view/466