Children should undergo regular blood pressure checks to help prevent deadly heart disease later in life, experts say.
A major new study has revealed that children with high blood pressure as early as age seven face up to a 50% higher risk of dying from cardiovascular disease over the next five decades.
Currently in the UK, children are not routinely screened for blood pressure as part of any national programme, but researchers argue the findings highlight the urgent need to introduce regular checks.
The study, which followed 38,000 children in the US for an average of 54 years, found those with higher blood pressure at age seven were far more likely to die from heart-related illness by their mid-50s. The risk was greatest among children whose blood pressure levels were in the top 10% for their age, sex, and height.
“We were surprised to find that high blood pressure in childhood was linked to serious health conditions many years later,” said lead author Alexa Freedman from Northwestern University, Chicago. “Having elevated blood pressure as a child may increase the risk of death by 40% to 50% over the next five decades.”
Experts say the results prove the importance of early screening and instilling heart-healthy habits from childhood. While the American Academy of Pediatrics already recommends blood pressure checks at annual doctor visits from age three, in the UK, readings are only taken if there is a specific medical concern.
The UK National Screening Committee has argued against nationwide checks, stating that high blood pressure is rare in children and that reliable testing methods for early detection are still lacking.
However, researchers insist the evidence is mounting. Previous studies have shown similar outcomes, including one where 12-year-olds with elevated blood pressure were more likely to die of heart disease by age 46.
“Even in childhood, blood pressure numbers matter,” said Dr. Freedman. “It is crucial for parents to know their child’s readings and take steps to protect cardiovascular health from an early age.”
The findings, published in JAMA and presented at the American Heart Association Hypertension Scientific Sessions 2025 in Baltimore, are expected to reignite the debate on whether the UK should rethink its stance on childhood blood pressure screening.
