CLEVELAND -- High blood pressure isn't just an adult medical concern -- an estimated 2 million children now have high blood pressure, reported NewsChannel5’s Tonya Strong.

Ashley Dotson, 16, has struggled with her weight for years.

"I've given up so many times, but I have to get this help because I'm in the danger zone this time," said Dotson.

She has a family history of high blood pressure, and she's worried about her own.

"I know that high blood pressure can lead to other problems and it can cause you to die," said Dotson.

According to new research from Tulane University, blood pressure levels for 8- to 17-year-olds are rising: on average, more than three points over the last decade.

And for young people, that means a strong possibility of developing heart disease, stroke, blindness or kidney failure.

Dr. Garey Noritz, of Metrohealth Medical Center, believes there are two main factors that account for the increasing rates of high blood among children: obesity and lack of exercise.

So, he recommends that parents implement a healthy meal plan and daily physical activity for the entire family.

"We call hypertension or high blood pressure the silent killer. That's because there are really no symptoms until after the damage is done," said Noritz.

Dotson is now in the care of a doctor, her blood pressure is under control, and she's losing weight.

A second study on teen blood pressure looks at the effect of caffeine on blood pressure levels in African-Americans, reported Strong.

Those who drank three or more sodas a day saw a 14-point increase in their systolic pressure, the top number. Experts say the systolic number is a good predictor of heart attacks.