Prevalence of Hypertension among School-Aged Children and Adolescents in Luanda, Angola

Sebastiana Gamboa, Am?lcar Silva, Joana Araujo, Joaquim Van-Dunem

Abstract: Background: Knowledge of the prevalence, diagnosis, and treatment of hypertension (HTN) in children and adolescents is essential to prevent cardiovascular disease in adulthood, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, a region with limited data. Objective: This study investigated the prevalence of hypertension among school-aged children and adolescents in Luanda, Angola, an area where pediatric cardiovascular data remain scarce. Methodology: Using a cross-sectional design, 616 students aged 6 to 16 years from public and non-public schools in the Maianga District were evaluated. Blood pressure measurements were taken weekly over three weeks using auscultatory methods and interpreted according to the 2017 American Academy of Pediatrics. Results: The prevalence of hypertension was 26.1%, with a higher occurrence among older adolescents and students from non-public schools Conclusion: Findings underscore the need for routine blood pressure screening after age 3 and lifestyle-focused interventions involving schools.

Keywords: Hypertension, Children, Adolescents, Prevalence, Luanda

How to Cite?: Sebastiana Gamboa, Am?lcar Silva, Joana Araujo, Joaquim Van-Dunem, "Prevalence of Hypertension among School-Aged Children and Adolescents in Luanda, Angola", Volume 14 Issue 11, November 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 26-30, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR251026134107, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR251026134107