Influence of low birth weight on microalbuminuria and blood pressure of school children

Low birth weight (LBW) is associated to an increased incidence of hypertension, renal and cardiovascular diseases in adulthood. The objective of this study was to evaluate possible changes in microalbuminuria (MA) and blood pressure (BP) in children with LBW. Material and Methods: The birth weight (BW) of 1,049 children between 8 and 11 years of age, enrolled in schools in the city of Goiania/Brazil was investigated. Those in the LBW group (BW <= 2.5 kg) were compared to a similar group with normal birth weight - NBW (BW <= 3.0 kg). BP and 24-hour urine MA were evaluated. BW and prematurity (gestational age < 37 weeks) were obtained from the information contained in the children's card. Results: There were 34 children with LBW and 34 with NBW. No significant difference was found regarding age, sex, race, weight, height, BMI, and family history of hypertension or diabetes. Children with LBW presented higher systolic BP (p = 0.019) and more albumin in the 24-hour urine then children with NBW (p = 0.024). Conclusion: We concluded that school children with LBW present with higher BP and more albumin excretion in the 24-hour urine. These findings can indicate presence of changes in both blood pressure and microalbuminuria in prepubertal children with low birth weight.