UKPDS: Risk Reduction in Diabetes-Related Complications (Updated Systolic BP)

• Data from the UKPDS indicate that risk for diabetes-related complications improved significantly with reductions in systolic BP. Conversely, a higher risk for these complications was seen with elevations in systolic BP. Each 10 mm Hg decrease in systolic BP was associated with a 19% reduction in stroke, a 16% decline in amputation or mortality from peripheral vascular disease (PVD), a 15% decrease in heart failure, a 13% reduction in microvascular complications, and a 12% decline in MIs. In contrast, the risk of cataract extraction was not substantially altered by decreasing the systolic BP.
• The researchers did not identify a threshold systolic BP level associated with the onset of any of the diabetes-related complications. They did note, however, that the lowest risk for these complications was seen in patients with systolic BP levels <120 mm Hg.

 Adler AI et al. BMJ. 2000;321:412-419.