Managing hypertension in people of African origin with diabetes: Evaluation of adherence to NICE Guidelines

BACKGROUND The pathophysiology of hypertension in people of African origin differs from other ethnicities. This effect may be exacerbated in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), hence control of hypertension is particularly important in this population. AIMS The primary aim was to evaluate the adherence to National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidance (National Guidelines NG28) for hypertension management in African origin patients with T2DM. METHODS This study was done using electronic health records at a large primary care centre based in Birmingham, UK. Strict exclusion criteria were applied to identify individuals with T2DM, African origin patients and a diagnosis of hypertension. Retrospectively participants were identified, and NICE guideline adherence was assessed using descriptive statistics. RESULTS 78 patients were included in the study of which 28 (36%) were on the NICE recommended combination of antihypertensives, suggesting poor adherence to the guidance in primary care prescribing. The blood pressure control of 35 (44.9%) patients was suboptimal, although this group received more frequent blood pressure monitoring. Microalbuminuria remains a problem in the suboptimal group. CONCLUSION This study provides insight into adherence to NICE guidance for managing hypertension in African origin patients with diabetes. Further work should be done to explore the effects of hypertension in this ethnic group and if there is a need for a more refined management guideline.