[Mild hypertension in children].

Essential hypertension (EHT) is found in 0.1 to 1% of Japanese school children. HT remains one of the major risk factors for the development of atherosclerosis and subsequent cardiovascular disease. EHT during childhood is usually mild, however, associated with end-organ damage such as left ventricular hypertrophy. In addition, it develops into adult hypertension. EHT is often seen in obese children. Furthermore, low birth weight has been reported to be closely associated with future EHT. Obese children are increasing and birth weight has a tendency of decreasing in Japan, it is, therefore, important to establish proper life-style from childhood throughout life.