Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 09:00 - 17:30 | Sat 09:00 - 16:00 (GMT)
Or call 0345 90 80 161
02 October 2015 08:08
Research shows high blood pressure ups the risk of diabetes
The risk of developing diabetes is much greater among people with high blood pressure, a new study has found.
Researchers at Oxford University studied data from more than four million people, finding that those with raised blood pressure are nearly 60% likelier to develop the disease than those with normal levels.
And they are now calling for more research to be carried out to assess whether blood pressure-lowering medications could be used as a tool to prevent cases of Type 2 diabetes.
Around the world, diabetes affects over 400 million people, with diabetics - who can cover themselves while on holiday with a diabetes travel insurance policy - having a raised risk of heart attacks, heart failure and strokes.
At the beginning of the research, everyone whose data was studied was free of both diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
But those who had high blood pressure had a close to 60% greater risk of getting diabetes than those who did not.
The link was found in both men and women, among people of different ages and in those whose weight was normal, as well as those who were overweight or obese.
Professor Kazem Rahimi, deputy director of Oxford University's George Institute for Global Health UK, says the study's findings could be a "game changer" when it comes to treating and understanding diabetes.
The expert says that with the research showing that people with high blood pressure have a significantly higher risk of developing diabetes, it should provide patients and doctors with an even greater motivation for bringing it under control.
Professor Rahimi says although the link has now been established, it is still not known whether high blood pressure actually causes diabetes or is just a risk factor.
But he says the study has paved the way for researchers to look at whether the risk of developing diabetes could be cut by lowering patients' blood pressure.
The team's study has been published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.
18 April 2019
Going away with your children? Beat the stress of travelling with your family with these great travel tips. Here's what you need to know if you're travelling with kids this Easter.
[more...]
16 April 2019
Heading to Madrid? Here's our guide to six must-see places you should visit in the Spanish capital, from food markets to fine art and plenty in between.
10 April 2019
Experience the magic of Madrid's Fiesta de San Isidro 2019! Discover where to stay, what to eat and what to see as you explore one of Spain's greatest festivals.
Experience Seville's intoxicating Feria de Abril and discover Andalucía's most famous festival! Here's your ultimate guide to La Feria.
01 April 2019
Songkran is Thailand's famous New Year's festival - and the world's biggest water fight. Here's everything you need to know before you plan your trip.
Travelling to Thailand? Learn the important local traditions and cultures to ensure you act respectfully in 'The land of a thousand smiles.'
Travelling overseas with young children? Make going through the airport easy and stress-free by following these top tips for surviving the airport with kids when flying.
25 March 2019
Discover the best places to learn to scuba dive! Check out our list of top dive locations around the world that are perfect for scuba diving beginners.
Looking for some late-season skiing? Here are some of the best places for spring skiing in Europe where you can enjoy reliable snow cover.
19 March 2019
Looking for adventure? Create your perfect Scandinavian weekend with these alternative city break ideas.
Lower your blood pressure with these fresh, healthy foods you can add to your diet.
02 March 2019
A Flybe flight was forced to abort take-off due to the cabin filling with "smoke" while it was accelerating along the runway at Exeter Airport.