What is the blood pressure goal in patients with type 2 diabetes and hypertension?

• A. <140/90
• B. <135/85
• C. <130/80
• D. <120/70

Answer: (C)

In people with type 2 diabetes who also have hypertension, aiming for a blood pressure around 130/80 mm Hg helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular events and diabetic kidney or eye complications. This target is supported by guidelines because lower pressures tend to translate into better outcomes without unacceptable risks for most patients when medications and lifestyle changes are well managed. Targets that are too high, like 140/90, miss part of the cardiovascular benefit diabetes care can provide. Targets that are much lower, such as 120/70, can lead to dizziness, falls, or hypotension in some patients and are not universally tolerated. The 130/80 goal represents a balance between achieving meaningful risk reduction and maintaining safety and practicality in everyday care. Antihypertensive therapy, especially renin–angiotensin system blockers, often complements this goal because of kidney and eye protective effects in diabetes.