When hypertension and diabetes coexist: strategies for cardiorenal protection.

Diabetes and hypertension frequently coexist, with effects potentially more detrimental than those of either condition alone. The combination increases the risk of both cardiovascular and renal morbidity and mortality. Antihypertensive drug therapy is of benefit to both nondiabetic and diabetic patients, but the greatest reduction in risk is seen in those with diabetes. Studies have shown the cardiorenal protective effects of therapy with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors either alone or combined with calcium channel blockers. The data indicated the need for screening of hypertensive patients for diabetes and aggressive treatment to control hypertension.