Ministry of Health Data: 663,000 Indonesian Children Experience Blood Pressure Surge

The Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) of the Republic of Indonesia has released alarming new data on the health of young people. A total of 663,000 children in Indonesia have been detected with elevated blood pressure or early signs of hypertension.

This phenomenon serves as a stern warning for parents and educators, as high blood pressure—typically associated with older age—is now affecting children and teenagers. If untreated, this condition risks leading to serious complications such as kidney damage or stroke during working years.

Based on national health screenings conducted until mid-2026, the blood pressure surge was found in school-age children (6-18 years). The data indicates a shift in Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) patterns, now targeting younger age groups.

In response, Kemenkes has instructed strengthening the School Health Program (UKS) to conduct regular blood pressure screenings. Parents are also urged to adopt healthy lifestyles at home using the CERDIK formula.

The government is also reviewing stricter nutrition labelling policies for processed food products to help the public choose healthier options for children and prevent hypertension from an early age.

Cardiologist Dr Yovi Kurniawati explained the differences in causes of hypertension between children and adults, alongside Kemenkes’ latest data on children’s health.