At what age should blood pressure be checked annually in overweight and obese children?

Blood pressure monitoring is essential for early identification of hypertension, especially in overweight and obese children, who are at a higher risk for developing cardiovascular issues. The American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines recommend that blood pressure screening should begin at age 3 for all children, including those who are overweight or obese. Starting annual checks at this age allows for timely intervention and management to mitigate health risks associated with high blood pressure.

Checking blood pressure at this age aligns with evidence suggesting that hypertension can develop early in life, particularly in children with elevated body mass index (BMI). Regular monitoring helps in tracking changes over time and determining the need for lifestyle modifications or further medical evaluation.

Prior to age 3, routine blood pressure screening is typically not recommended, as hypertension is less common in that age group, and measurements may not be as reliable or informative. Therefore, beginning annual checks at age 3 is important for maintaining the long-term health of at-risk children.