Expert consensus on blood pressure management of diabetic patients in China

This Expert Consensus proposed by the Chinese Society of Endocrinology (CSE) updates concepts on hypertension management in patients with diabetes. It focuses on clinical outcomes literature published within the past 5 years and currently in press, and incorporates these new observations into modifications of established guidelines. Complications and mortality in diabetic patients are increased when hypertension is present. The present update focuses on questions such as what to do when a diabetic patient has an elevated blood pressure level when therapy is initiated and whether combinations of agents should be used as soon as possible. Although the strategies and principles of treatment remain unchanged, approaches to specific patient-related issues influencing cardiovascular outcomes in people with diabetes have changed. Finally, an updated integrated management of multiple cardiovascular risk factors is provided and is suggested as a starting point to achieve blood pressure goals. In addition to controlling blood pressure, the CSE suggests that individualized strategies are equally important and that attention should be paid to other factors, including safety (which is the most important), feasibility, and health economic evaluation.