[Blood pressure targets in patients with diabetes mellitus : What are optimum values?]

Diabetes mellitus and arterial hypertension are the most prevalent diseases in the aging population. Both are important risk factors for the development of cardiovascular complications and are associated with a high mortality. Both diseases are often first recognized late. The prognosis of patients with diabetes mellitus is favorably influenced by an optimal adjustment of blood sugar and blood pressure, as confirmed in large randomized clinical trials. Patients with diabetes mellitus and a blood pressure >130/80 mm Hg should first receive life style counseling with respect to nutrition and activity. Drug treatment for reduction of blood pressure is recommended for a blood pressure ≥140/90 mm Hg.