JAMA: 2008-04-09, Vol. 299, No. 14, Author in the Room™ Audio Interview

Interview with Barbara V. Howard, PhD, author of Effect of Lower Targets for Blood Pressure and LDL Cholesterol on Atherosclerosis in Diabetes: The SANDS Randomized Trial. Summary Points: 1. Both standard and aggressive targets for blood pressure and LDL cholesterol in individuals with diabetes can be achieved and are safe. 2. Aggressive targets were associated with regression in IMT and greater decrease in LV mass, but long term data are needed to determine if they will result in improvement in clinical events. 3. Aggressive targets for blood pressure and LDL cholesterol may be considered on an individual basis.