Global rates of high blood pressure in kids have nearly doubled in the last 20 years, with Kentucky especially affected due to high childhood obesity rates. Learn why early detection matters and how families can build healthy habits to prevent high blood pressure.

Published: November 25, 2025

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

High blood pressure, once considered an adult health condition, is becoming more common in kids and teens.

A new study published in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health found that global high blood pressure rates in children have nearly doubled this century. In 2000, about 3.4% of boys and 3% of girls had high blood pressure. By 2020, those numbers climbed to 6.5% and 5.8%, respectively, meaning millions more kids are dealing with the condition.  

Why it matters

The trend reflects a challenge that hits close to home in Kentucky, where childhood obesity rates are among the highest in the nation. According to the State of Childhood Obesity report, more than 1 in 5 Kentucky children can be classified as obese — and obesity is one of the main causes of high blood pressure and other serious long-term health issues.

High blood pressure in childhood can set the stage for heart disease, which is the leading cause of death in adults, and other health complications later in life.

Excess body weight can affect insulin resistance, inflammation and blood vessel function, all of which contribute to higher blood pressure. Other risk factors include:

• Diets high in sodium and processed foods
• Poor sleep and chronic stress
• Limited physical activity

What the research shows

The study also found many cases of high blood pressure in children go unnoticed, which is why pediatric health care providers encourage parents to be proactive.

“High blood pressure in kids doesn’t always cause obvious symptoms, which is why regular checkups with their pediatrician are so important,” saidLucinda T. Wright, M.D., pediatric cardiologist with Norton Children’s Heart Institute. “Catching it early gives families the best chance to make changes before it affects the heart or other organs.”

For parents worried about their child’s weight or blood pressure, the goal isn’t to restrict or shame, but to build healthy, positive habits as a family. Michelle Shaver, coordinator with Norton Children’s Prevention & Wellness, recommends following the 5-2-1-0 approach at home:

• 5 – Aim for at least five fruits and vegetables every day.

• 2 – Limit recreational screen time – phone, tablet, TV, videogames – to two hours or less. Screen time for children under 2 is not recommended. 

• 1 – One hour of movement per day. Allow the child to participate in physical activities they enjoy.

• 0 – Avoid sweetened drinks. Even 100% juice can contain a lot of added sugar.

Value sleep. Studies show that a lack of sleep has a direct link to childhood obesity. Aim for at least nine hours every night for school-age children. Younger children need more than 10 hours of sleep and naps every day.