Prevalence and Risk Factors of Hypertension in Adolescents

Background: Hypertension is increasingly recognized as a significant health concern in adolescents globally, including in Indonesia. Early detection and management are essential for preventing long-term cardiovascular diseases. However, the prevalence, risk factors, and effective intervention strategies for hypertension in Indonesian adolescents remain underexplored. Methods: This study assessed hypertension prevalence and identified contributing factors among adolescents in Indonesia. A cross-sectional study design was used, involving 1,000 adolescents aged 12–18 years from multiple regions in Indonesia. Blood pressure measurements were taken following standardized protocols, and socio-demographic, lifestyle, and family medical history data were collected through structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics to evaluate associations between hypertension and various risk factors. Results: The study found a hypertension prevalence of 13.2% among the adolescent participants. Key risk factors included a high body mass index (BMI), sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy dietary habits, and a family history of hypertension. Additionally, adolescents with low levels of physical activity and poor dietary habits were significantly more likely to develop hypertension. Conclusion: Hypertension is a growing health problem in Indonesian adolescents, with modifiable risk factors such as diet and physical activity playing significant roles. Public health interventions focusing on lifestyle modifications, early screening, and education about hypertension prevention are crucial for reducing future cardiovascular risks in this demographic. Further studies are recommended to explore long-term trends and intervention effectiveness.