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Dallas, TX – A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine suggests that more aggressive blood pressure control can significantly reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure in people with type 2 diabetes.
Led by researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center, the study found that patients with diabetes who achieved a systolic blood pressure below 120 mm Hg experienced a 21% lower risk of major cardiovascular events compared to those with a target of less than 140 mm Hg.
“These findings provide strong evidence that more intensive blood pressure control can have a substantial impact on cardiovascular health in people with diabetes,” said Dr. Jiang He, Professor and Chair of Epidemiology at UT Southwestern.
The study involved over 12,000 patients with type 2 diabetes and elevated blood pressure. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups: one targeting a standard blood pressure of less than 140 mm Hg, and the other aiming for a more intensive target of less than 120 mm Hg.
Over four years, the intensive-treatment group experienced fewer major cardiovascular events, including strokes and heart attacks. While the intensive treatment group had slightly more instances of low blood pressure and elevated potassium levels, these side effects were generally manageable.
“These results have important implications for clinical practice,” Dr. He said. “They may lead to a revision of current guidelines for blood pressure control in patients with diabetes, potentially saving many lives.”
Disclaimer: This news article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult with your healthcare provider for any health concerns or before making any decisions regarding your health. This article aims to be concise and informative while accurately reflecting the key findings of the study.
