Hypertension in patients with diabetes. Overcoming barriers to effective control.

The management of diabetic hypertension poses special problems for the medical community. Although patient adherence is often a major barrier to successful management, physicians' beliefs and prejudices also negatively impact treatment. In addition, healthcare organizations need to provide better support to physicians who feel isolated in their efforts to manage diabetic hypertension. Reductions of morbidity and mortality are achievable goals but require aggressive treatment and improved adherence if they are to be reached.