A recent study published in Neurology has found that untreated high blood pressure (hypertension) may significantly increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in older adults. The researchers analyzed data from over 31,000 participants across 14 countries, with an average age of 72 years.
Key Findings
Participants with untreated hypertension had a 36% higher risk of developing AD compared to those without high blood pressure.
When compared to individuals taking blood pressure medications, those with untreated hypertension had a 42% increased risk of AD.
Both treated and untreated hypertension were associated with a higher risk of non-AD dementia, including vascular dementia, compared to healthy controls.
The association between untreated hypertension and increased AD risk remained significant even after adjusting for factors such as age, sex, and education level.
Potential Mechanisms
Hypertension can cause damage to the brain’s blood vessels, particularly the small ones, leading to inadequate blood supply to important brain regions. This reduced blood flow can result in decreased brain function and cognitive decline.
Additionally, uncontrolled hypertension may exacerbate inflammation in the brain, which can accelerate the pathology of AD and increase the risk of developing the disease.
Implications And Future Research
These findings emphasize the importance of managing high blood pressure, even in later life, to reduce the risk of AD and other forms of dementia.
Future research should investigate the long-term relationship between hypertension and AD, extending back into middle age, to better understand the impact of blood pressure management on cognitive health over time.
Conclusion
This large-scale study provides compelling evidence that untreated hypertension is a significant risk factor for AD in older adults. Effective management of high blood pressure through medications, lifestyle modifications, and regular monitoring may play a crucial role in reducing the burden of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.