People living with both type 2 diabetes and hypertension (high blood pressure) may face a significantly higher risk of early death — especially from heart-related issues — than those with either condition alone. A large U.S. study found that the combination of type 2 diabetes and hypertension more than doubles the risk of death from any cause and nearly triples the risk of death from cardiovascular disease.

Type 2 diabetes affects how the body uses insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels over time. High blood pressure means the force of blood against artery walls is too strong. These conditions are both common, and they often occur together. Having either one increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney problems, and other complications.

What the Study Found

Researchers looked at health data from nearly 49,000 U.S. adults collected over a 19-year period through the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES). They divided people into four groups: those with neither type 2 diabetes nor high blood pressure, those with only type 2 diabetes, those with only high blood pressure, and those with both.

During an average follow-up of nine years:

• People with both conditions had a 2.46 times higher risk of death from any cause.
• Their risk of dying from heart disease was nearly three times higher.
• Females and people from certain racial and ethnic groups — including Hispanic and non-Hispanic Black adults — had even higher risks than males and non-Hispanic white adults when managing both type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.

Why This Matters for People With Diabetes

These findings highlight how important it is to monitor and manage not just blood sugar but also blood pressure. Living with both type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure calls for coordinated care, lifestyle adjustments, and regular check-ins with your healthcare provider.

If you have type 2 diabetes, it may be worth asking your doctor these questions:

• Is my blood pressure in a healthy range?
• Would changes in medication, diet, or physical activity help protect my heart?
• How often should I be screened for heart or kidney complications?

Explore recipes and ingredient swaps that are good for both your heart and blood sugar.

Connect With Others Who Understand

On DiabetesTeam, people share their experiences with type 2 diabetes, get advice, and find support.

Do you also manage high blood pressure? How do you stay on top of both? Let others know in the comments below.