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Obesity in Adolescence is Associated with Left Ventricular Hypertrophy and Hypertension

Movahed, Mohammad-Reza M.D., Ph.D.1,2; Bates, Sharon B.S.3; Strootman, Deborah B.S.N.1; Sattur, Sudhakar M.D., M.H.S.A.1


Abstract:

Background: Obesity is a risk factor for hypertension (HTN) and left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). However, the association between obesity, HTN or LVH in adolescents has not been studied in a large population.


Method: Utilizing a database of screening echocardiograms, we assessed for the presence of LVH and HTN (defined as systolic blood pressure (SBP) > 140 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure (DBP) > 90 mmHg) in obese adolescents (BMI > 30) using univariate and multivariate analysis.


Results: A total of 2072 subjects were identified between the ages of 13–19 years. LVH was significantly more prevalent in obese subjects (47/166 [28.3%] vs. nonobese subjects (99/1612 [6.1%]) with a P-value of <0.001.> 140 was present in 38% of obese subjects (54/142) versus 12.7% of nonobese subjects (172/1, 353). DBP > 90 was present in 10.6% of obese subjects (15/141) of versus 3.1% of nonobese subjects (42/1352). After adjustment for age, gender and LVH, obesity remained independently associated with HTN (for SBP > 140, OR 2.24, CI: 1.46–3.45, P <> 90, OR 2.10, CI: 1.063–4.17, P = 0.03).


Conclusion: Obese adolescents have a significantly higher prevalence of HTN and LVH. Our analysis suggests a direct negative effect of obesity on cardiovascular function starting early in teenage years. (Echocardiography 2011;28:150-153)