Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) Practice Exam

What blood pressure threshold should patients with diabetes aim for to be advised on lifestyle changes?

1. Greater than 150/90

2. Greater than 140/80

3. Greater than 130/80

4. Greater than 120/80

The correct answer is: Greater than 120/80

Patients with diabetes should aim for a blood pressure threshold of greater than 130/80 mmHg to be advised on lifestyle changes. The rationale for this threshold is grounded in extensive research that demonstrates the increased cardiovascular risks associated with elevated blood pressure levels in individuals with diabetes. As obesity, a common issue among those with diabetes, often correlates with higher blood pressure, pursuing lifestyle interventions such as dietary modifications, increased physical activity, weight management, and smoking cessation becomes crucial when blood pressure exceeds this level. The 130/80 mmHg target aligns with clinical guidelines that advocate for earlier intervention to mitigate complications related to hypertension, as well as to promote overall cardiovascular health. This proactive approach is essential because people with diabetes face compounded cardiovascular risks, and addressing blood pressure early can lead to better health outcomes. Setting a threshold lower than 130/80 might not reflect the necessary clinical action that guides effective management in this population, and higher thresholds would delay important lifestyle modifications that could prevent future complications. Adopting lifestyle changes at this threshold is a key component of comprehensive diabetes care.