Blood Pressure Assessment in Ophthalmology Clinics for Patients With Diabetes

What is the prevalence of elevated or uncontrolled blood pressure among adults with diabetes presenting to an ophthalmology clinic?In this single-site case series of 172 adults with diabetes receiving retina care, approximately 1 of 12 had normal blood pressure, approximately half had stage 2 hypertension, and approximately 1 in 10 were in hypertensive crisis. Among those without prior hypertension diagnoses, approximately 7 in 10 had hypertensive-range readings, with 6 in 10 requiring follow-up recommendations.These results suggest routine blood pressure assessment in ophthalmology clinics may identify substantial undiagnosed or uncontrolled hypertension among patients with diabetes, providing an opportunity for timely systemic care coordination.

Corresponding Author: Sai Samayamanthula, BA, University of Virginia School of Medicine, PO Box 800793, Charlottesville, VA 22908 (sss3tj@virginia.edu).

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