Blood pressure is a measurement of the force of blood flow inside your arteries. Your blood pressure is stated as two figures, e.g.130/80mmHg (millimetres of mercury). The first figure is known as the systolic pressure and relates to the pressure as the heart contracts and pushes blood through the arteries. The other figure is the diastolic pressure measured when the heart relaxes to refill with blood.

For someone without diabetes the blood pressure should be no higher than 140/85 but when you have diabetes (or if you have had a heart attack, stroke or coronary heart disease) your blood pressure should be no higher than 130/80.

It is important to have your blood pressure checked at least once a year as part of your annual review for diabetes. This helps to ensure that it is in the target range and not increasing your risk of developing diabetes complications, including cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Your healthcare team will help you to aim towards a target level of 130/80mmHg or less.