Normal blood pressure values for children and adolescents are based on sex, age, and height, and are available in standardized tables.
Prehypertension is defined as a blood pressure in at least the 90th percentile, but less than the 95th percentile, for age, sex, and height, or a measurement of 120/80 mm Hg or greater.
Hypertension is defined as blood pressure in the 95th percentile or greater.
Blood Pressure Levels for Boys by Age and Height Percentile*
Blood Pressure Levels for Girls by Age and Height Percentile*
Updated Definitions of BP Categories and Stages from the AAP, 2017
| For Children Aged 1–13 y | For Children Aged ≥13 y |
|---|---|
| Normal BP: <90th percentile | Normal BP: <120/<80 mm Hg |
| Elevated BP: ≥90th percentile to <95th percentile or 120/80 mm Hg to <95th percentile (whichever is lower) | Elevated BP: 120/<80 to 129/<80 mm Hg |
| Stage 1 HTN: ≥95th percentile to <95th percentile + 12 mmHg, or 130/80 to 139/89 mm Hg (whichever is lower) | Stage 1 HTN: 130/80 to 139/89 mm Hg |
| Stage 2 HTN: ≥95th percentile + 12 mm Hg, or ≥140/90 mm Hg (whichever is lower) | Stage 2 HTN: ≥140/90 mm Hg |
Pediatrics. 2017 Sep;140(3)
References / Further Reading
Pediatrics. 2017 Sep;140(3). Clinical Practice Guideline for Screening and Management of High Blood Pressure in Children and Adolescents. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28827377
Am Fam Physician. 2012 Apr 1;85(7):693-700.
https://www.cc.nih.gov/ccc/pedweb/pedsstaff/bptable2.PDF