Risk of Stroke according to the Duration of Diabetes Mellitus with Hypertension

Stroke is a major cause of death and disorder, and diabetes mellitus (DM) is a significant risk factor of stroke. This study examined the importance of target blood pressure (140/90 mmHg) management in patients with DM. Based on the data of the 6th National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, a total of 16,389 patients aged 18 to under 80 were assessed through regression analysis to estimate the risk of stroke through blood pressure control. The prevalence of stroke according to the presence or absence of DM was higher in the diabetic group, and a longer duration of DM indicated a higher risk of hypertension and stroke. The hazard ratio of stroke was lower in the maintenance group (0.57) of target blood pressure (140/90 mmHg) compared to the high blood pressure group(140/90 mmHg). Despite the accompanying treatment for DM and hypertension, the frequency of hypertension increased, and the prevalence of stroke increased after five years of DM. Hence, effective blood pressure management at this time is important. The risk of stroke should be reduced by continuously managing blood pressure in DM.