[Blood pressure among school 14-15 year old children. Blood pressure determination in school children aged 14-15 years in the county of Vejle by school physicians].

A total of 3,790 school pupils aged 14 and 15 years attending the ninth form during the school session 1986/87 were submitted to blood pressure measurements employing a digital sphygmomanometer. Where boys were concerned an average blood pressure of 123.9/65.9 mmHg was found while, in girls, the average blood pressure was 117.6/70.9 mmHg. In cases with blood pressure readings over the 90% fractile, repeated measurements are recommended. The 90% fractile for boys was 139/80 mmHg and for and for girls 133/84 mmHg. In cases where repeated measurements show blood pressure readings over the 95% fractile, further investigation and advice about risk factors are recommended. The 95% fractile for boys was 144/84 mmHg and 138/88 mmHg for girls. The influence of pubertal development and body-weight on the blood pressure are reviewed. Screening in connection with health examination in the ninth form is recommended in order to identify adolescents at risk for development of hypertension.