People 60 and older with untreated high blood pressure may have an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease compared to both people who have been or are being treated for high blood pressure as well as people without the chronic condition. This was revealed in a recent meta-analysis published in online issue of Neurology. While the study does not establish causation, it underscores a significant association.
The research, led by Dr. Matthew J. Lennon from the University of New South Wales, involved a comprehensive analysis of data from 31,250 participants with an average age of 72. These individuals were part of 14 studies that tracked cognitive changes and dementia diagnoses over an average follow-up period of four years.
GLOBAL PARTICIPANT POOL
Participants hailed from various countries, including Australia, Brazil, China, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Japan, Korea, Nigeria, Republic of Congo, Spain, Sweden, and the United States. Out of the total cohort, 1,415 individuals developed Alzheimer’s disease during the study period.
The study categorized participants based on their blood pressure status:
- 9% had untreated high blood pressure
- 51% were on blood pressure medications
- 36% had no high blood pressure
- 4% had uncertain blood pressure status
INCREASED RISK WITH UNTREATED HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE
After adjusting for variables such as age, sex, and education, the study found:
- Individuals with untreated high blood pressure had a 36% higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s compared to those without high blood pressure.
- The risk increased to 42% when compared to individuals with high blood pressure who were undergoing treatment.
IMPORTANCE OF BLOOD PRESSURE MANAGEMENT
Dr. Lennon emphasized the significance of managing high blood pressure, stating, “High blood pressure is a leading cause of stroke and cerebrovascular disease, which can be controlled with medication. Our findings suggest that treating high blood pressure may also reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.”
PREVIOUS RESEARCH AND CURRENT INSIGHTS
Previous studies have shown that blood pressure medications can lower the risk of various dementias. This meta-analysis adds to the evidence by specifically linking blood pressure management to a decreased risk of Alzheimer’s disease, reinforcing the need for ongoing treatment as people age.
The findings from this meta-analysis highlight the importance of treating high blood pressure to potentially reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. As high blood pressure remains a modifiable risk factor, effective management could play a crucial role in mitigating Alzheimer’s risk and improving overall cognitive health in older adults.
