### Diabetes and High Blood Pressure: Stroke Risk in Different Age Groups Type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure are well-known risk factors for stroke. A recent study has found that these conditions may pose a greater stroke risk for middle-aged adults compared to older adults. #### Key Findings - **Middle-Aged Adults (45-64 years):** - Those with type 2 diabetes are twice as likely to have a stroke compared to those without diabetes. - Those with high blood pressure are 80% more likely to have a stroke compared to those without high blood pressure. - **Older Adults (75+ years):** - The increased stroke risk associated with type 2 diabetes is only 30%. - High blood pressure increases stroke risk by 50%. #### Additional Insights - **Race:** Black middle-aged adults have a 34% higher stroke risk compared to white individuals, but this difference diminishes with age. - **Other Risk Factors:** Factors like smoking, atrial fibrillation, and left ventricular hypertrophy do not show age-related changes in stroke risk. #### Management and Prevention - **Medication and Lifestyle Changes:** Managing blood sugar and high blood pressure through medication and lifestyle changes like diet and exercise can reduce stroke risk. - **Focus on Other Risk Factors:** As people age, it may be wise to focus on managing other risk factors such as atrial fibrillation, smoking, and left ventricular hypertrophy. #### Conclusion The study highlights the importance of managing chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure at any age. However, it also suggests that doctors should consider age when assessing stroke risk and managing other risk factors. For more information on how to reduce stroke risk, visit the [CDC website](https://www.cdc.gov/stroke/prevention.htm).