High blood pressure in children is often missed. The AAP simplified table lists the 90th percentile for the shortest children at each age, so any reading below it is normal; readings above it need a full assessment using height percentile tables.
How to use the Pediatric Blood Pressure Calculator
- Sex
- Age
- Systolic
- Diastolic
Results update as you type, and every field accepts the units shown in its menu.
How it works
Enter sex, age and the blood pressure measured with an appropriately sized cuff after 3–5 minutes of rest.
AAP screening thresholds (mmHg)
| Age | Boys | Girls |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 98/52 | 98/54 |
| 2 | 100/55 | 101/58 |
| 3 | 101/58 | 102/60 |
| 4 | 102/60 | 103/62 |
| 5 | 103/63 | 104/64 |
| 6 | 105/66 | 105/67 |
| 7 | 106/68 | 106/68 |
| 8 | 107/69 | 107/69 |
| 9 | 107/70 | 108/71 |
| 10 | 108/72 | 109/72 |
| 11 | 110/74 | 111/74 |
| 12 | 113/75 | 114/75 |
| 13 and over | 120/80 | 120/80 |
Inputs explained
| Field | What to enter |
|---|---|
| Sex | Choose one: Male, Female |
| Age | In years |
| Systolic | In mmHg |
| Diastolic | In mmHg |
Health note: this calculator is for education and screening only and is not a diagnosis or treatment advice. Discuss your results with a qualified clinician.
Formula
Readings at or above the age- and sex-specific screening values need repeat measurement and full percentile assessment
Age 13 and over: elevated ≥ 120/80, stage 1 ≥ 130/80, stage 2 ≥ 140/90 (adult thresholds)
Worked example
Inputs — Sex: Male; Age: 8 years; Systolic: 104 mmHg; Diastolic: 64 mmHg.
Results — Screening threshold – systolic = 107 mmHg; Screening threshold – diastolic = 69 mmHg; Result = Normal.
Key terms
- Percentile tables
- Blood pressure norms by age, sex and height percentile.
Frequently asked questions
At what age should children's blood pressure be checked?
Every year from age 3, or earlier with risk factors.
Why use the shortest-child values?
They give a single threshold that never misses an abnormal reading.
What causes high blood pressure in children?
Obesity is the most common cause in older children; kidney disease is more common in younger ones.