Now they know this isn't so. A small number of children have higher blood pressures than others for unknown reasons. These children are said to have primary or essential hypertension. Research scientists don't know why some children have higher blood pressure than others. Children who are overweight usually have higher blood pressure than those who aren't.
Some children inherit the tendency from one or both parents who have high blood pressure.
High blood pressure is more frequent and more severe in families of black Americans than in whites. The reasons aren't fully understood. A special diet and physical activity may be prescribed by the doctor to lower high blood pressure in overweight children. Although cigarette smoking isn't directly related to high blood pressure, youngsters who smoke should stop for a variety of health reasons. Parents should set a good example by not smoking and help educate their children about the hazards of smoking.