High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a hidden danger for many adults. According to the World Health Organization, about 46% of the 1.28 billion adults with high blood pressure do not know they have it. This lack of awareness is concerning, especially since recent research indicates that untreated hypertension can significantly increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease in individuals aged 60 and older. A new metanalysis reveals that those with untreated high blood pressure face a 36% greater risk of developing Alzheimer’s compared to those without hypertension. Moreover, when compared to individuals taking medication for blood pressure control, the risk rises to 42%.
Dr. Matthew Lennon, a researcher at the Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing at the University of New South Wales, emphasizes the importance of managing hypertension. He points out that even older adults in their 70s and 80s can reduce their risk of Alzheimer’s by effectively treating their high blood pressure. The analysis also highlights that unmedicated individuals with hypertension face a 69% higher risk of other types of dementia, while those with poorly controlled hypertension on medication have a 33% increased risk. This suggests that managing blood pressure can play a crucial role in preventing cognitive decline.
Despite the risks associated with uncontrolled hypertension, many diagnosed individuals struggle to adhere to their medication regimens. The WHO estimates that only about 20% of adults successfully manage their high blood pressure. Dr. Andrew Freeman from National Jewish Health in Denver notes that the implications of high blood pressure extend beyond cardiovascular issues, affecting various parts of the body, including the brain. He warns that neglecting blood pressure management can lead to severe health consequences, including heart disease and strokes.
The metanalysis, published in the journal Neurology, analyzed data from over 31,000 participants across 14 countries, including the United States, China, and Germany. The findings revealed a consistent pattern: untreated high blood pressure correlates with a higher risk of both Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia. In fact, individuals with untreated hypertension had a staggering 110% increased risk of vascular dementia compared to those without high blood pressure. However, the study's authors caution that some results may not be statistically significant due to sample size limitations.
Dr. Richard Isaacson, director of research at the Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases, explains that while high blood pressure alone may not directly cause Alzheimer’s, it accelerates the underlying pathology. Uncontrolled vascular risk factors like hypertension and high cholesterol contribute to inflammation in the brain, which can hasten cognitive decline. The research suggests a U-shaped relationship between blood pressure levels and Alzheimer’s risk, indicating that both excessively high and low blood pressure can be detrimental.
To combat the risks associated with high blood pressure, experts recommend proactive measures. Regular monitoring of blood pressure is essential, as fluctuations can occur throughout the day. Individuals should take multiple readings over several days to get an accurate picture of their blood pressure. The American Heart Association advises using a validated upper-arm monitor and recording the readings consistently. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as adopting a low-sodium diet and engaging in regular exercise can significantly improve blood pressure control.
