Understanding of blood pressure by people with type 2 diabetes: a primary care focus group study.

backgroundFor many people with type 2 diabetes most care is provided in primary care. While people with both diabetes and hypertension are at increased risk of complications, little is known about their understanding of blood pressure.

aimTo explore the understanding and beliefs about the importance of blood pressure held by people with type 2 diabetes. DESIGN OF STUDY: Framework analysis of qualitative research using focus groups.

settingThirty-two participants were recruited from four general practices and a religious meeting group in Nottingham. Discussions took place in five community centres providing familiar surroundings for participants.

methodIn order to get views expressed fully, white, Asian, and African-Caribbean participants met in five separate groups. Facilitators were fluent in the appropriate language and one member of the research team was present at all focus groups.

resultsSome participants, including those with raised blood pressure, were not aware of the increased importance of achieving good blood pressure control. No participants mentioned the increased risk of eye or kidney disease as a result of the combination of diabetes and raised blood pressure. Participants' perceptions regarding the control of blood sugar and blood pressure were different: blood sugar control was seen as their responsibility but blood pressure control was seen as the responsibility of the doctor. There was scepticism regarding the diagnosis of raised blood pressure, of targets and the management of blood pressure. There was also scepticism about the advice and education about diabetes given in primary care.

conclusionsPeople with type 2 diabetes require more knowledge of the increased risks they have from raised blood pressure, although this alone is unlikely to improve blood-pressure control. Strategies to increase the degree of control over and responsibility taken for the control of blood pressure need development and may require the specific development of participatory and negotiating skills among people with type 2 diabetes. Increasing the participation of these people in their own care will require doctors and nurses to work in a different way.