Low birthweight is associated with increased risk for hypertension in adulthood

There is a correlation between low birthweight and hypertension in adulthood, according to an article in the October 11th issue of the Lancet.

Previously, scientists had hypothesized that the negative effect of birthweight on systolic blood pressure began during fetal growth and was amplified with age. Over 3600 people from a birth cohort study of men and women born in Britain in 1946 participated in the current study; details of their birthweight and blood pressure (previously recorded at ages 36, 43, and 53 years) were assessed.

Individuals with low birthweight had higher systolic blood pressure levels at 36 years of age, which were sustained (although not increased) by age 53 years. People from a poorer social class in childhood had higher systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels than those from a higher socioeconomic class; this effect was seen to increase between the ages of 36 and 53 years.

The findings indicate that the rate of increase in systolic blood pressure among those from a poorer social class was greater than the rate of increase among those from a higher social class; the difference (1 mm Hg every 10 years) was largely a result of increased body mass index.

Lead author Dr. Rebecca Hardy commented, "These findings highlight the importance of weight control throughout life in the prevention of raised blood pressure during middle age. Understanding the mechanisms linking the childhood socioeconomic environment and adult body mass index may make prevention strategies more effective."



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