P-197: Valsartan improves the endothelial function in hypertensive patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Epidemiological data suggest thata type 2 Diabetes mellitus (DM) is often associated with hypertension and endothelial and platelets dysfunctions; the aim of the study was to evaluate, after twelve months of treatment with Valsartan, a potent AT1 receptor blocker, the effect on the endothelial and platelets functions in hypertensive patients with type 2 DM. We studied in 202 patients ( age 63,6±9,7; 65% males ) with type 2 DM and essential hypertension ( stage 1 or 2 according the sixth report of the JNC VI ), non smokers, the influence of a single oral daily dose of Valsartan (160 mg.) on the levels of Von Willebrand factor (VWF), PCR and Fibrinogen ( as signs of endothelial dysfunction ), Soluble-P-Selectine (SPS) ( as signs of platelets function ); we moreover evaluated Systolic (SBP), Diastolic blood pressure (DBP), LDL-cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol and HbA1C. After 12 months 151 patients obtained a good pressure control ( < 130/80 mmHg according ADA 2001 - P