Insights Into Pediatric Hypertension and Kidney Health: Celebrating National Kidney Awareness Month

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is not just an adult health issue; it is increasingly affecting children and can have serious long-term consequences. Unmanaged hypertension in children poses significant risks, including damage to the kidneys, heart, and other vital organs.

To shed light on this important issue, Stanford Medicine Children’s Health recently hosted an Instagram Live session as part of National Kidney Awareness Month, with Sara Kibrom, MD, and Abanti Chaudhuri, MD, pediatric nephrologists specializing in diagnosing and treating kidney diseases, from the Pediatric Hypertension Program. Here are some key insights they shared:

The Importance of Early Detection and Regular Screenings

According to Dr. Kibrom, early screening is crucial in managing pediatric hypertension in children. “The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends checking blood pressure starting at age 3 for healthy children. These regular checks can catch hypertension early, allowing for timely intervention before it leads to more serious health problems.” However, children with certain risk factors—such as prematurity, congenital heart disease, kidney disease, or endocrine disorders—should have their blood pressure monitored before age 3.

Dr. Kibrom added that early intervention can also help prevent long-term complications and give children a better chance at staying healthy as they grow.

“This proactive approach not only protects their kidneys but also supports their overall well-being. High blood pressure can cause long-term damage to vital organs if left untreated.”

How hypertension affects kidney health

Dr. Chaudhuri highlighted that managing blood pressure from a young age is crucial to protecting kidney health and preventing the progression to chronic kidney disease. “High blood pressure can cause scarring in the small blood vessels of the kidneys, leading to reduced kidney function over time if not managed early.”

She explained that effective management requires a combination of personalized treatment plans and lifestyle changes. “Lifestyle modifications such as a nutritious diet, regular physical activity, and proper sleep, are important to a child’s overall well-being and good health. The Pediatric Hypertension Program supports children and their families with guidance from dietitians, social workers, and psychologists to help foster long-term healthy habits.”

Nephrologists say that by taking a holistic and multidisciplinary approach, we can effectively address all facets of a child’s health, ensuring that no aspect is overlooked. “Our team also includes specialists from various fields like pediatric cardiology, endocrinology, and gastroenterology. This comprehensive team method provides a solid foundation for managing hypertension effectively,” said Dr. Chaudhuri.

Both nephrologists stressed the importance of early detection, regular screenings, and proactive management—all key to preventing hypertension-related complications and ensuring a healthy future.

“These habits, formed early, can last a lifetime and significantly reduce the risk of hypertension-related complications,” said Dr. Chaudhuri. “Parents can play a crucial role by encouraging their children to be active and eat healthily. Reducing screen time and promoting physical activities that children enjoy can make a big difference. It’s about making healthy habits fun and achievable.”

To dive deeper into the topic of pediatric hypertension and kidney health, and to hear more from our experts, watch the full Q&A session on the Stanford Medicine Children’s Health Instagram Live link. Our experts address a wide range of related questions, offering detailed information and practical advice for parents and caregivers.