In a nutshell
This study analyzed the relationship between morning pulse pressure, as monitored at home, and increased albuminuria in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM).
Some background
Kidney damage is a major risk for diabetic patients. Albuminuria (presence of albumin in urine) is indicative of kidney damage. Albumin is a protein made by the liver, and is important in balancing the amount of fluid in the arteries and veins.
Changes in blood pressure can be both a cause for, and an effect of, kidney damage. In light of this, researchers wanted to check if kidney damage in diabetic patients could be predicted by simple home blood pressure measurements.
When measuring blood pressure, systolic blood pressure (SBP) refers to the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats (when the heart muscle contracts). Diastolic blood pressure (DBP) refers to the pressure in the arteries between heartbeats (when the heart muscle is relaxed). Pulse pressure (PP) refers to the difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
Methods & findings
A total of 858 diabetic patients were included in this study. Out of the 858 patient, 477 were being treated with drugs to lower blood pressure. All patients were asked to measure blood pressure at home in the mornings and evenings. Higher SBP and PP were found to be significantly associated with albuminuria. Albuminuria was related most strongly to morning PP measurements of more than 60 mmHg.
The bottom line
This study concluded that morning pulse pressure measurements could be used to monitor for the development of kidney disease in diabetic patients.
What’s next?
Consult with your physician on the importance of monitoring and controlling blood pressure while managing diabetes.
Published By :
Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice
Date :
Jul 17, 2013
