Blood Pressure Control Among Diabetic Patients in the Eastern Mediterranean Region: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: The control of blood pressure (BP) is a challenge in diabetic patients and is associated with adverse outcomes of diabetes. In this systematic review and metaanalysis, we investigated the BP control rate among hypertensive diabetic patients in the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR) countries.

Methods: We systematically searched PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases up to January 2023 for observational studies on BP control among hypertensive diabetic patients in all EMR countries. We included studies reporting the proportion of hypertensive, type 2 diabetic patients with controlled BP, defined as systolic/diastolic BP < 140/90 or <130/80 mmHg. Study quality was assessed using modified STROBE guidelines, and a random-effect meta-analysis was conducted to pool prevalence data and calculate overall rates. Subgroup analysis was performed by gender, study design, country, and BP control cut-offs (140/90 and 130/80).

Results: Among the 1949 retrieved studies, 20 studies assessing 27956 individuals were included. The proportion of BP control regardless of cut-off points was 36.8% (95% CI=29.1%45.3%) based on the studies reported for both genders.The prevalence was 53.2% (95% CI=36.1%- 69.6%) and 43.5% (95% CI=20.0%-70.3%) based on the studies reported just for women or men, respectively.

Conclusion: Our findings indicate that BP control targets are not successfully achieved in hypertensive diabetic patients in the Eastern Mediterranean region. It is recommended to place greater emphasis on the quality of hypertension care in the management of type 2 diabetes.