Vol. 8, Issue 1, Part A (2026)

Childhood is a vital stage of life characterized by rapid growth and maturation, during which the cardiovascular and respiratory systems undergo notable developmental changes. Resting heart rate (RHR), blood pressure (BP), and peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) are widely used indicators of cardiovascular and pulmonary health and are known to vary with age, sex, ethnicity, nutritional status, and level of physical activity. The present cross-sectional study was designed to examine age- and sex-related differences in selected physiological parameters among tribal (Tripuri and Reang) and non-tribal (Bengali) school-going children of Tripura, India. A total of children aged 8-15 years were assessed for RHR, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and PEFR using standardized techniques. The findings revealed a gradual and significant increase in SBP, DBP, and PEFR with advancing age, while RHR showed a significant decline (P<0.001). In general, boys demonstrated higher blood pressure and PEFR values, whereas girls exhibited comparatively higher resting heart rates. These observations emphasize the need for regular monitoring of physiological parameters during childhood for early detection of cardiovascular risk and for their relevance in public health planning and sports science.