A new study published in the journal Neurology highlights the significant benefits of intensive blood pressure control in preventing cognitive decline, such as mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia. For adults with hypertension and high cardiovascular risk, aggressive blood pressure management for three and a half years showed long-lasting protection against these conditions, even after the treatment was stopped.
What the Study Found
Researchers from Wake Forest University, USA, studied 9,361 participants aged 50 and older from the US and Puerto Rico over a follow-up period of seven years. They conducted cognitive tests in-person and via telephone, categorizing participants as having:
- No cognitive impairment
- Mild cognitive impairment (MCI)
- Probable dementia
The findings revealed:
- Participants in the intensive blood pressure control group had a lower risk of cognitive impairment compared to those receiving standard treatment.
- Controlling systolic blood pressure to more aggressive targets significantly reduced the risk of MCI and combined cognitive issues, though not dementia alone.
Why Blood Pressure Control Matters
Hypertension (high blood pressure) is a known risk factor for cognitive decline. By managing blood pressure aggressively:
- You can reduce the risk of developing MCI or dementia.
- Improve quality of life and extend active, independent living in older adults.
- Protect against cognitive conditions that can lead to loss of independence.
Expert Insights
An author of the study, noted, “Lowering your blood pressure to more aggressive targets can improve the quality of life and extend active life for individuals with hypertension.”
Similarly, the corresponding author, emphasized that intensive treatment leads to sustained cognitive benefits, even years after stopping the treatment.
What This Means for Patients
This study reinforces the importance of managing hypertension, not only for cardiovascular health but also for preventing cognitive decline. Intensive blood pressure control is a valuable tool for reducing the risk of cognitive impairment in older adults.
What Can Doctors Do?
- Educate patients about the link between hypertension and cognitive health.
- Advocate for regular blood pressure checks and treatment plans tailored to individual cardiovascular risks.
- Encourage patients to adopt lifestyle changes like a healthy diet, exercise, and stress management to complement their treatment.
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