Blood pressure nomograms for children and adolescents in Turkey.

In order to obtain data on blood pressure (BP) distribution in Turkish children, a total of 5,599 Turkish children from birth to 18 years were studied. BP rises with age, and both systolic and diastolic BP showed a positive correlation with height and weight in both sexes. As the sampling was representative of Turkish children at different ages, the mean systolic and diastolic BP levels were compared for each age with the results reported in the study of the Second Task Force. The mean systolic and diastolic BP of Turkish children and the increase with growth and development were different from the Second Task Force study. Genetic, ethnic, and environmental factors were suggested to be responsible for this variation. In conclusion, normal BP curves should be applied with caution in childhood, and every population should use their own normal standards to define a measured BP level in children.