Divergent impacts of diabetes severity on systolic and diastolic blood pressure: a comprehensive multivariate analysis

Abstract

This paper explores associations between systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP and DBP) and various health factors using 2017-2020 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data. We noted an inverse relationship between Body Mass Index and SBP and DBP, a contradiction to the specific link with hypertension, possibly explained by the 'obesity paradox.' Total cholesterol positively correlated with SBP and DBP, substantiating the dyslipidemia-hypertension connection. Interestingly, SBP negatively correlated with diabetes severity, while DBP showed a positive correlation. This discrepancy might be due to different physiological mechanisms influenced by diabetes-induced metabolic changes and vascular alterations. Despite potential confounders and self-report bias, the results emphasize the complex relationship between diabetes and hypertension, suggesting further research for more effective health strategies.