Hypertension, often referred to as high blood pressure, and diabetes are two interconnected health conditions. While not everyone with hypertension will develop diabetes, the risk is significantly elevated compared to those with normal blood pressure.
Understanding the mechanisms linking these two conditions can help individuals take proactive steps to manage their health. Here's why we spoke to our expert Dr Anupam Anand, Department of General Medicine, Sharda Hospital - Delhi to shed some light if everyone with hypertension can develop diabetes. Here is what he shared with us.
Shared Risk Factors In Hypertension and Diabetes
According to Dr Anupam, both hypertension and diabetes share common risk factors. These may include:
1. Insulin resistance
"In this condition the body's cells become less responsive to insulin," he said. This happens to be a key factor in both conditions.
2. Obesity
Dr Anupam shared that excess weight, especially around the abdomen, increases the risk of both hypertension and diabetes.
3. Physical inactivity
A sedentary lifestyle, which includes lack of physical activity, contributes to much more than being overweight. It leads to the development of both conditions.
4. Genetics
"Most chronic diseases have some relation to your genes. Similarly, family history can play a role in the risk of developing hypertension and diabetes," he said.
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Mechanisms Linking Hypertension to Diabetes Risk
Numerous studies have confirmed the association between hypertension and diabetes risk. A meta-analysis published in Diabetes Care found that individuals with hypertension had a 1.6-fold increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared to those with normal blood pressure. Additionally, a study in the Journal of Hypertension revealed that for every 10 mmHg increase in systolic blood pressure, the risk of developing type 2 diabetes increased by 12%.
Dr Anupam shared that hypertension can significantly increase the risk of diabetes through several mechanisms. These may include:
1. Blood vessel damage
High blood pressure exerts excessive force on blood vessel walls, leading to damage and narrowing, which in turn impairs the insulin delivery to cells, leading to insulin resistance and ultimately diabetes.
2. Kidney damage
Hypertension can also damage the kidneys by overworking them, leading to causing inflammation, and restricting blood flow which in turn affects their ability to filter glucose, resulting in hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), leading to diabetes.
3. Inflammation
Chronic inflammation can lead to insulin resistance by impairing the function of insulin receptors in cells, making it difficult for insulin to effectively regulate blood sugar levels.
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Good News! Not Everyone with Hypertension Will Develop Diabetes
While hypertension is a significant risk factor for diabetes, not everyone with high blood pressure will develop the condition. "There are several factors that can influence this risk," he added. These include:
- Duration and severity of hypertension
- Presence of other risk factors like obesity, physical inactivity, and family history
- Effective and controlled blood pressure management
Steps to Minimise Diabetes Risk
“If you have hypertension, taking proactive steps can help reduce your risk of developing diabetes,” Dr Anupam suggested incorporating the following habits in your everyday routine to stay out of the risk:
- Monitor blood pressure regularly
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Engage in regular physical activity
- Follow a balanced diet
- Manage stress
- Get regular check-ups
Conclusion
The answer to the question if all hypertensive disorders raise the diabetes risk is no! However, there is a strong association between hypertension and diabetes. While not all individuals with hypertension will develop diabetes, the risk is significantly elevated. Hence, adopt a healthy lifestyle, monitor blood pressure regularly, and work closely with healthcare providers to effectively reduce their risk of developing diabetes and improve their overall health.