Magnitude and pattern of hypertension among diabetics; risk prediction for stroke and myocardial infarction

Background: Hypertension and diabetes are closely related morbidities. Uncontrolled blood pressure in diabetic patients can pose severe threat to life. An attempt was made to screen for hypertension among diabetics and also to predict their risk for stroke or myocardial infarction. Material and Methods: Community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in an urban slum of Mysore. Data was collected between July and August 2011. Known diabetics residing in this area were included in the study. Socio-demographic information of diabetic patients, physician′s conduct in identifying hypertensives, advice for blood pressure check-up, and the extent of patient′s compliance to advice were assessed. Simultaneously subjects were screened for hypertension. Results: The study comprised of 104 patients. Only half of the subjects had an annual blood pressure recording by a physician. Prevalence of hypertension was 64.4% (67), with a known to unknown ratio of 1:2.5. Eleven (10.4%) diabetics with stage III hypertension have a very high risk of stroke and myocardial infarction. Conclusions: Timely diagnosis and management of hypertension among diabetics reduces the risk of cardiovascular complications. Physicians should adhere to guidelines and refocus on issues that influence patient′s compliance in monitoring their blood pressure